Nation's No. 1 WR, Texas Longhorns Commit a 'Recruitment to Watch' Amid LSU Pursuit

Five-star wide receiver Easton Royal is committed to Texas, but LSU and other top programs are pursuing him hard.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 4:55pm

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Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers are actively recruiting five-star wide receiver Easton Royal, who is currently committed to the Texas Longhorns. Royal, from New Orleans, Louisiana, is the nation's top-ranked wide receiver prospect and has drawn interest from several top programs despite his Texas pledge.

Why it matters

Landing elite in-state talent like Royal is a priority for Kiffin as he looks to rebuild LSU into a national powerhouse. Royal's recruitment showcases the fierce competition for top prospects, especially those from talent-rich Louisiana.

The details

Royal, a 5-foot-11, 185-pound receiver, has offers from LSU, Ole Miss, Florida, Michigan, Oregon and others in addition to his Texas commitment. As a junior in 2024, he had over 1,100 all-purpose yards and 17 touchdowns. Royal is also a standout track athlete, running a 10.3-second 100-meter dash.

  • Royal committed to Texas on November 29, 2025, one day before Kiffin accepted the LSU head coaching job.
  • Royal will take official visits to LSU, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee this summer.

The players

Easton Royal

A five-star wide receiver from New Orleans, Louisiana, and the nation's top-ranked pass catcher in the 2027 recruiting class.

Lane Kiffin

The head football coach of the LSU Tigers, who is actively pursuing Royal and other top Louisiana prospects to rebuild the program.

Steve Sarkisian

The head football coach of the Texas Longhorns, who currently holds Royal's verbal commitment.

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What they’re saying

“The high schools here, it's been great going to them and receiving the feedback. I've always enjoyed, over time, coming here and recruiting. I'd love to sign a lot of Louisiana kids.”

— Lane Kiffin, Head Coach, LSU Tigers (si.com)

What’s next

Royal will take official visits to LSU, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee this summer as he continues to evaluate his options despite his current Texas commitment.

The takeaway

Easton Royal's recruitment showcases the intense competition for elite talent, especially in talent-rich Louisiana. LSU's new coach Lane Kiffin is making the state a priority, but will have to fend off several other top programs to land the nation's No. 1 wide receiver.