In a recruiting battle that drew national attention, four-star safety and elite LSU target, Jayden Rivers, has officially reaffirmed his commitment to the Oregon Ducks, turning down strong late pushes from both Florida and Nebraska. Rivers, a standout in the 2026 class, made his announcement via social media on Friday, ending weeks of speculation about a potential flip to the SEC or Big Ten.
Rivers, a 6-foot-1, 195-pound safety out of Texas, originally committed to Oregon in January but remained on the radar of several top programs, including LSU, Florida, and Nebraska. His dynamic playmaking ability, physicality, and high football IQ made him one of the most coveted defensive backs in the nation. Though LSU had made an aggressive push in recent weeks, hoping to keep him in SEC territory, Rivers decided to stay loyal to the Ducks.
Staying True to Oregon
“I’ve had a lot to think about these past few weeks, but after conversations with my family, my coaches, and the staff at Oregon, I know I made the right choice the first time,” Rivers said in a video post. “I’m 100% committed to being a Duck. This is home now.”
Rivers cited his relationship with Oregon defensive backs coach Demetrice Martin and head coach Dan Lanning as key reasons for staying. Oregon’s defensive system and consistent development of NFL-caliber talent at the safety position also played major roles in solidifying his decision.
“I trust Coach Lanning and Coach Meat (Martin). They’ve had my back from the beginning and never wavered. That loyalty means everything,” Rivers added.
Pressure from the SEC and Big Ten
In recent weeks, LSU and Florida had reportedly made significant inroads in Rivers’ recruitment. LSU was particularly focused on bolstering its 2026 secondary class, having already secured commitments from top in-state defensive backs. Rivers, despite being a Texas native, had been seen as a realistic flip target due to the Tigers’ tradition at the safety position and proximity to home.
Florida, meanwhile, hosted Rivers on an unofficial visit in June, where he connected with new defensive coordinator Ron Roberts and felt the pull of SEC football. Nebraska also entered the mix with a late official visit offer and a strong NIL package, according to multiple reports.
Still, Rivers remained unmoved.
“LSU is a great program, and Florida showed a lot of love. But in the end, I have to follow my heart. I believe in what we’re building at Oregon,” Rivers said.
A Major Win for Oregon
Rivers’ decision is a massive win for Oregon, especially as they transition into the Big Ten. With college football realignment heating up and recruiting battles becoming more national than ever, Oregon holding onto a prized Southern recruit speaks volumes about their growing footprint.
“Getting a guy like Jayden to reaffirm his commitment despite all the noise speaks to how strong our program culture is,” Coach Dan Lanning said in a statement. “He’s a difference-maker on and off the field, and we’re thrilled to have him as part of our family.”
Rivers is ranked as the No. 5 safety and the No. 54 overall player in the 2026 class, per 247Sports Composite. His range, tackling ability, and ball-hawking skills have drawn comparisons to recent NFL standouts like Kyle Hamilton and Derwin James.
What This Means for LSU
For LSU, Rivers’ decision represents a rare miss in what has otherwise been a successful 2026 cycle. The Tigers have been loading up defensively, particularly in the secondary, but losing out on Rivers after a strong late push will sting. However, LSU still has multiple top safety prospects on their board and is expected to remain active on the recruiting trail.
LSU head coach Brian Kelly and defensive coordinator Blake Baker have built a strong defensive reputation in Baton Rouge, and while Rivers chose to go another route, the Tigers remain a top destination for elite defensive backs across the country.
Final Thoughts
In an era where commitments are often fluid, Jayden Rivers’ decision to stick with Oregon is a testament to the power of relationships, trust, and vision. The Ducks continue to prove they can recruit nationally — and win key battles in SEC country.
As for LSU and Florida, the door may now be closed on Rivers, but the chase for elite talent in the 2026 class is far from over. And for Oregon, securing Rivers for good sends a loud message: the Ducks are ready to compete at the highest level, coast to coast.