Football Recruitment at LSU: The Top Ten Recruits in Tigers History
Louisiana State University (LSU) has long been a powerhouse in college football, attracting top-tier talent from across the nation. The Tigers’ rich history is adorned with athletes who have made significant impacts both on and off the field. This article delves into the top ten recruits in LSU Tigers history, highlighting their recruitment journey, collegiate achievements, and subsequent professional careers.
1. Leonard Fournette (Class of 2014)
Hailing from St. Augustine High School in New Orleans, Leonard Fournette was a prodigious talent who garnered national attention early in his high school career. As a freshman, he rushed for over 2,500 yards and 30 touchdowns, becoming the first-ever freshman to receive a scholarship offer from LSU. His high school career culminated with 7,619 rushing yards and 88 touchdowns. Fournette’s commitment to LSU was a significant win for the Tigers, as he was unanimously regarded as the top running back prospect in the nation. During his tenure at LSU, Fournette amassed 3,830 rushing yards, ranking fourth in program history, and scored 42 touchdowns. His sophomore year was particularly noteworthy, setting single-season records with 1,953 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. Fournette’s collegiate success translated into a professional career when he was selected fourth overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2017 NFL Draft. Saturday Down South+2Wikipedia+2247Sports+2On3
2. Russell Shepard (Class of 2009)
A versatile athlete from Cypress Ridge High School in Houston, Texas, Russell Shepard was a dual-threat quarterback who excelled in both passing and rushing. His dynamic playmaking abilities made him one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2009 class. Shepard’s commitment to LSU added a multifaceted player to the Tigers’ roster. At LSU, he transitioned to wide receiver, showcasing his adaptability and team-first mentality. Shepard’s versatility continued into his professional career, where he contributed to several NFL teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers.247Sports
3. Derek Stingley Jr. (Class of 2019)
Coming from The Dunham School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Derek Stingley Jr. was a standout cornerback with exceptional skills in coverage and ball handling. His high school performance earned him the distinction of being the top cornerback recruit in the nation. Stingley Jr.’s decision to stay in his hometown and play for LSU bolstered the Tigers’ defense. As a freshman, he played a pivotal role in LSU’s 2019 National Championship run, leading the Southeastern Conference (SEC) with six interceptions. His collegiate success and lockdown corner reputation led to his selection as the third overall pick by the Houston Texans in the 2022 NFL Draft.
4. Early Doucet (Class of 2004)
Early Doucet, a wide receiver from St. Martinville High School in Louisiana, was renowned for his reliable hands and route-running precision. As a top recruit in the 2004 class, his commitment to LSU added depth to the Tigers’ receiving corps. During his time at LSU, Doucet recorded 160 receptions for 1,943 yards and 20 touchdowns. His consistent performance earned him All-SEC honors and contributed significantly to the Tigers’ offensive success. Doucet’s professional career saw him drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft, where he played for five seasons.247Sports
5. Ja’Marr Chase (Class of 2018)
A product of Archbishop Rummel High School in Metairie, Louisiana, Ja’Marr Chase was a highly touted wide receiver recruit known for his speed and playmaking ability. His decision to attend LSU proved monumental for both parties. In the 2019 season, Chase set SEC records with 1,780 receiving yards and 20 touchdown receptions, earning the prestigious Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver. Opting out of the 2020 season, Chase declared for the NFL Draft and was selected fifth overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2021. His rookie season was historic, setting numerous records and earning him Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
6. Malachi Dupre (Class of 2014)
Malachi Dupre, another standout from John Curtis Christian High School in Louisiana, was a five-star wide receiver recruit in the same class as Leonard Fournette. His athleticism and leaping ability made him a coveted prospect. At LSU, Dupre tallied 98 receptions for 1,609 yards and 14 touchdowns over three seasons. He declared for the NFL Draft after his junior year and was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round of the 2017 draft. While his professional career has seen him on multiple teams’ practice squads, Dupre’s impact at LSU remains noteworthy.
7. Anthony Johnson (Class of 2011)
Known as “The Freak,” Anthony Johnson was a dominant defensive tackle from O. Perry Walker High School in New Orleans. His explosive strength and agility made him the top defensive tackle recruit in the 2011 class. Johnson’s tenure at LSU fortified the Tigers’ defensive line, where he amassed 77 tackles, 22.5 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks over three seasons. Despite going undrafted in 2014, he signed with the Miami Dolphins and had stints with several other NFL teams, showcasing the resilience and determination emblematic of LSU athletes.
8. Patrick Peterson (Class of 2008)
Originally named Patrick Johnson, Peterson was a standout cornerback from Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach, Florida. His exceptional athleticism and ball skills made him a top recruit in the 2008 class. At LSU, Peterson earned unanimous All-American honors and won the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation’s best defensive player in 2010. His prowess extended to special teams, where he was a dynamic return specialist. The Arizona Cardinals selected Peterson fifth overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, and he has since enjoyed a decorated professional career, including multiple Pro Bowl selections.
9. Devin White (Class of 2016)
Devin White, a versatile linebacker from North Webster High School in Springhill, Louisiana, was a dynamic athlete who initially played running back before transitioning to defense. His speed, agility, and instincts made him one of the top linebacker recruits in the 2016 class.
At LSU, White quickly became the heart of the Tigers’ defense, earning the Butkus Award in 2018 as the nation’s top linebacker. He recorded 286 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles over three seasons. His leadership and dominance on the field propelled him to the fifth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, where he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. White played a crucial role in the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl LV victory, solidifying his status as one of the NFL’s premier linebackers.
10. JaMarcus Russell (Class of 2003)
JaMarcus Russell, a towering quarterback from Mobile, Alabama, was one of the most highly sought-after recruits in the 2003 class. His combination of size, arm strength, and athleticism made him a once-in-a-generation prospect.
At LSU, Russell became the starting quarterback in 2005, leading the Tigers to an 11-2 record and a Sugar Bowl victory in 2006. He finished his college career with 6,625 passing yards and 52 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make jaw-dropping throws. His stellar performance led to him being selected first overall by the Oakland Raiders in the 2007 NFL Draft.
Though his professional career did not pan out as expected, Russell remains one of the most hyped recruits in LSU history and was instrumental in establishing LSU as a destination for top quarterback talent.
The Impact of Elite Recruiting at LSU
The success of LSU’s football program has been largely attributed to its ability to attract and develop elite talent. Many of these recruits have played pivotal roles in national championship runs, while others have gone on to become stars in the NFL.
LSU’s reputation as a recruiting powerhouse continues to grow, thanks to its strong coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and deep-rooted football culture. The Tigers’ ability to secure top prospects ensures that they remain a force in college football, competing for championships year after year.
From Leonard Fournette’s electrifying runs to Patrick Peterson’s shutdown defense, the Tigers’ history is filled with legendary recruits who have left an indelible mark on the program. As LSU continues to land top-tier talent, the next generation of Tigers will look to carry on this legacy, further cementing the program’s place among college football’s elite.