LSU has made a splash in the recruiting world yet again! This time, they've landed their fifth and most high-profile commitment of the month by securing five-star athlete D.J. Pickett. Pickett, ranked No. 14 in the ESPN 300, chose LSU over other top programs like Miami and Oregon, making waves in the college football scene.
The excitement surrounding Pickett's commitment was palpable during his announcement ceremony at Zephyrhills High School in Florida. Standing tall at 6-foot-3 and weighing 170 pounds, Pickett is a two-way star and the top-ranked athlete in the 2025 class. He's also the No. 2 recruit from Florida, adding even more prestige to LSU's already impressive recruiting class.
Why LSU?
So, what made LSU stand out for Pickett? A big part of his decision was his connection with LSU secondary coach Corey Raymond. Pickett described their bond as strong and highlighted the relationships he’s built with former LSU defensive backs Patrick Peterson and Derek Stingley Jr. These connections played a significant role in pulling him towards Baton Rouge. “Me and Corey Raymond have a good bond,” Pickett told ESPN. “I’m a big relationship guy. And LSU is DBU. Playing defensive back there is a blessed spot to be in.”
A Tight Recruitment Race
Pickett's recruitment was a rollercoaster, involving spring visits to several top-tier programs. He checked out LSU, Clemson, Georgia, Miami, and Oregon before narrowing his list to three finalists. The competition was fierce, especially considering his family ties to Miami. Pickett's uncle, Booker Pickett, was a defensive end for Miami, and his cousin, Booker Pickett Jr., is a freshman edge rusher for the Hurricanes. Despite these connections and the enticing energy from Dan Lanning's staff at Oregon, LSU ultimately won him over. "All these three schools are good," Pickett said. "[LSU] is just the place I feel I can grow the most and fulfill my dreams."
Versatility on the Field
Pickett isn't just a defensive star; he's a versatile athlete who excels on both sides of the ball. During his junior season at Zephyrhills, he hauled in 52 passes for 1,033 yards and 15 touchdowns. On defense, he recorded 31 total tackles and an interception. His athletic prowess doesn't stop at football—Pickett is also a district champion sprinter and competes in baseball and basketball.
Family Ties and Athletic Legacy
Athletic talent runs deep in Pickett's family. Besides his connections to Miami, his uncle Ryan Pickett was a standout nose tackle at Ohio State and enjoyed a 14-year NFL career, including a Super Bowl win with the Green Bay Packers. These family ties underscore the high expectations and athletic pedigree that D.J. Pickett brings to LSU.
Building a Powerhouse Class
With Pickett’s commitment, LSU's recruiting class continues to strengthen. He joins an already impressive list of recruits, including No. 1 quarterback Bryce Underwood and No. 1 running back Harlem Berry. This gives Brian Kelly and the Tigers top prospects in three different position groups for the current cycle. Pickett is now the second-highest-rated member of LSU's fifth-ranked class, trailing only Underwood. LSU now boasts 12 ESPN 300 commits for 2025, with Pickett being one of three top-100 commits.
July Additions
July has been a fantastic month for LSU’s recruiting efforts. Alongside Pickett, the Tigers have added several other talented players to their roster. Defensive tackles Zion Williams (No. 15 DT in 2025) and Brandon Brown (No. 33 DT), defensive end Damien Shanklin (No. 17 DE), and safety Jhase Thomas (No. 32 safety) are among the new additions. This influx of talent promises to bolster LSU's roster, setting the stage for a formidable team in the coming years.
The Future Looks Bright
With commitments from top athletes like Pickett, LSU’s future on the football field looks incredibly promising. The blend of top-tier talent and strong coaching connections creates an environment where players can thrive and achieve their dreams. Pickett's decision to join the Tigers adds a significant boost to their defensive lineup, further solidifying LSU's reputation as a powerhouse in college football recruiting.
In Conclusion
Landing D.J. Pickett is a testament to LSU's recruiting prowess and the strong relationships the coaching staff builds with its players. With his versatility, athleticism, and deep-rooted football lineage, Pickett is poised to make a substantial impact at LSU. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching his journey as he dons the purple and gold, contributing to what promises to be an exciting and successful era for LSU football.
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