Tristen Keys, the No. 1-ranked wide receiver in the 2026 class by On3, is one of the most sought-after recruits in the cycle. In March, he gave his verbal pledge to Brian Kelly's LSU. However, since last week, Keys has been subtly giving decommitment hints with his social media activities.
On Monday, Keys dropped a photodump on Instagram, igniting flip rumors due to his attire. In the photos, he wore a crimson-colored hat with the letter "A," similar to Alabama's logo. Crimson is a Tide color, according to their brand guideline.
"Only the colors below will be permitted for inside the “A,” outline of the “A,” and background; Crimson – PMS 201C, Silver- PMS 428 or PMS 430, White, Black," the guideline reads.

Alabama extended an offer to Keys in September. 247Sports' Tom Loy shared an insight regarding Keys and the Tide's relationship.
“Another school that made a huge move recently was Alabama. His junior day visit to Tuscaloosa was an eye-opener," Loy wrote in February. "He connected well with multiple players on campus, including freshman quarterback and former five-star recruit Keelon Russell. Keep an eye on the Crimson Tide."
He is scheduled to visit Alabama on June 17, followed by a stop at LSU three days later.
Although Keys is committed to the Tigers, he kept his recruitment open and scheduled visits to other schools. This includes Miami, Texas A&M, Auburn and Tennessee. Ole Miss is also reportedly vying to land Keys.
Mario Cristobal hosted Keys on June 1 and is eager to get him on board. With Jackson Cantwell's recruitment, and a reported $2.5 million NIL deal on the table, the Hurricanes have been flexing their NIL muscle. On Wednesday, Keys inked a deal with Adidas, which is also the sponsor of Miami.
Later that day, he competed in the Rebels' 7 on 7 camp. Keys also removed all LSU-related content from his social media profiles, prompting decommitment speculations.
Tristen Keys inks deal with sportswear brand Adidas
On Wednesday, Tristen Keys joined the likes of Dylan Raiola and Cam Ward as Adidas athletes.
Adidas announced the partnership on X.
"Don't blink or you'll miss the future. Welcome to the three stripes, @5ways.tk," Adidas tweeted.
LSU is sponsored by Nike, and if Keys plays for the program, he won't be able to wear Adidas cleats.
Keys is the No. 1 prospect in Mississippi and boasts a NIL valuation of $536,000. In his junior year, he registered 58 receptions for 1,275 yards and 14 touchdowns.
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