Brian Kelly and LSU Tigers fans bracing for bad news on recruiting trail as top five star looks likely to flip……see more………..
Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers are navigating a tumultuous period on the recruiting trail, marked by significant losses and mounting pressure from fans and the broader college football community. The recent decommitments of top-tier recruits have not only impacted the team’s future prospects but have also intensified scrutiny on Kelly’s leadership and the program’s direction.
The most notable setback came with the decommitment of Bryce Underwood, the nation’s No. 1 overall recruit and a five-star quarterback. Underwood’s decision to flip his commitment to Michigan, reportedly influenced by a substantial NIL offer exceeding $10 million, was a significant blow to LSU’s 2025 recruiting class . This move underscored the growing influence of NIL deals in college football recruiting and highlighted the challenges programs face in retaining top talent.
Adding to the woes, five-star cornerback Kade Phillips also decommitted from LSU, choosing to join the Texas Longhorns instead. Phillips’ departure further weakened LSU’s defensive recruiting haul and sparked a wave of criticism from fans, with some calling for Kelly’s dismissal .
These high-profile decommitments have raised concerns about the stability and competitiveness of LSU’s recruiting efforts. Fans have expressed frustration, especially when comparing the football program’s struggles to the successes of LSU’s baseball and women’s basketball teams, both of which have secured top-ranked recruiting classes .
In response to these challenges, Brian Kelly has acknowledged the shifting landscape of college football recruiting, emphasizing the need for increased financial support and donor participation to remain competitive in the NIL era . He has also outlined a four-step recruiting strategy focusing on player retention, high school recruiting, transfer portal acquisitions, and internal evaluations to strengthen the team’s roster .
Despite the setbacks, LSU has managed to secure commitments from other top recruits, including five-star cornerback DJ Pickett and five-star wide receiver Derek Meadows . These additions provide some optimism for the program’s future, but the loss of cornerstone recruits like Underwood and Phillips has undeniably cast a shadow over the upcoming season.
As the Tigers prepare for the 2025 season, the focus will be on stabilizing the recruiting class, adapting to the evolving NIL landscape, and delivering on-field success to restore confidence among fans and stakeholders. Brian Kelly’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining the program’s trajectory and his tenure as head coach.