East St. Louis DB Jabarri Lofton commits to Mizzou

Three-star safety chooses Tigers over Illinois, Kansas State and Purdue

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Class of 2027 three-star safety Jabarri Lofton committed to the University of Missouri during an unofficial visit on Saturday. Lofton chose the Tigers over Illinois, Kansas State and Purdue, the three other programs he had scheduled official visits with.

Why it matters

Missouri continues to build momentum on the recruiting trail, securing a commitment from a top defensive back prospect in the 2027 class. Lofton's pledge adds to an already strong class for the Tigers, who are looking to build on their success and compete for championships in the coming years.

The details

Lofton, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound safety from East St. Louis, Illinois, cited the coaching staff, facilities and player development program as key factors in his decision to commit to Missouri. He had previously visited the school for an Alabama game and a Junior Day event.

  • Lofton committed to Missouri during an unofficial visit on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
  • Lofton had planned official visits to Illinois (April 10-22), Purdue (May 29-31), Missouri (June 5-7) and Kansas State (June 12-14), but ultimately chose to commit to the Tigers during his fourth unofficial visit.

The players

Jabarri Lofton

A three-star safety prospect in the Class of 2027 from East St. Louis, Illinois who committed to the University of Missouri.

Eli Drinkwitz

The head coach of the University of Missouri football team.

Jacob Yoro

The safeties coach for the University of Missouri football team, who offered Lofton a scholarship in late October.

Jacob Peeler

The wide receivers coach for the University of Missouri football team, who attended an East St. Louis game early in the 2025 season.

CJ Bass III

A player from East St. Louis who signed with Missouri in the Class of 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Love the coaches. The facilities are amazing. They also have a great staff for eating habits, getting players bigger and stronger.”

— Jabarri Lofton (on3.com)

“He likes the way I move around and the way I play. I just love that he's a competitor and he loves to win.”

— Jabarri Lofton (on3.com)

What’s next

Lofton will now focus on his senior season at East St. Louis High School before enrolling at Missouri in the summer of 2027.

The takeaway

Missouri's continued success on the recruiting trail, securing commitments from top prospects like Jabarri Lofton, demonstrates the program's ability to attract elite talent and build a championship-caliber roster for the future.