5 biggest commitments Brian Kelly secured for LSU in 2026 recruiting cycle ft. Emanuel Tucker

Coach Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers had a strong 2025 recruiting class, but it had a dark cloud hanging over it. While the Tigers had the No. 10-ranked class, according to 247Sports, the team missed out on No. 1-ranked recruit quarterback Bryce Underwood. Underwood initially committed to LSU but flipped to Michigan in the fall.

As a result, the Tigers are looking to avoid similar situations in 2026 and put together another strong recruiting class. On Thursday, they got good news as four-star offensive tackle Emanuel Tucker told On3 that he is committed to LSU. He joins an already strong 2026 recruiting class for the Tigers.

Top 5 commitments for Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers in the 2026 recruiting cycle

#1 Tristen Keys, WR

The most significant commitment the LSU Tigers have received early in the 2026 recruiting cycle is five-star wide receiver Tristen Keys. According to 247Sports, he is the No. 4-ranked recruit and No. 1-ranked wide receiver. He plays for Hattiesburg High School in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Although he is not the No. 1-ranked recruit like Bryce Underwood was, the Tigers will do everything they can to ensure Keys does not rescind his commitment. He is the only five-star committed to the Tigers thus far.

#2 Emanuel Tucker, OT

Offensive tackle Emanuel Tucker is the most recent addition to LSU’s 2026 recruiting class. The four-star recruit from New Albany, Mississippi, is the No. 224-ranked player in the nation and the No. 19-ranked offensive tackle.

#3 Richard Anderson, DL

Four-star defensive lineman Richard Anderson is another strong addition for Brian Kelly and the Tigers. Weighing 340 pounds, the New Orleans native already has the size to be an elite player. He is the No. 63-ranked player and No. 7-ranked defensive lineman in the nation.

#4 Brysten Martinez, OT

Before the Tigers received the commitment of Emanuel Tucker, four-star offensive tackle Brysten Martinez had already committed to the team. Martinez is from Gonzales, Louisiana, and plays for East Ascension High School. He is the No. 108-ranked player in the nation and No. 9-ranked offensive tackle.

#5 Havon Finney, CB

Cornerback Havon Finney is another strong four-star recruit committed to the Tigers. As the No. 125-ranked player and No. 14-ranked cornerback in the nation, Finney could have an immediate impact on the Tigers’ roster in 2026. He plays for Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth, California.