On July 4, 2025, LSU football continued its dominant 2026 recruiting swing by securing a major commitment from Bryson Cooley, a four-star offensive lineman from Laurel (West Jones High) in Mississippi. At 6‑foot‑6 and 315 lb, Cooley is ranked as the No. 2 offensive lineman in Mississippi, and he chose LSU over SEC rivals such as Ole Miss, Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi State .
Cooley’s pledge marks a significant recruiting coup for LSU’s offensive line coach, Brad Davis, and the Tigers’ staff. Cooley will join fellow Mississippi standout Emanuel Tucker—rated the No. 1 offensive lineman in the state—and five-star receiver Tristen Keys, the top wide receiver in America . With Tucker already on board since June and Keys pledging in March, LSU now holds the No. 1 and No. 2 ranked OL and the nation’s top WR from Mississippi in their class.
Cooley revealed his decision via social media, following a strong official visit in June. He emphasized that “the development shows all around at LSU” and praised the quality of the relationships he was able to build with the program . His verbal commitment moves LSU up into the Top 5 nationally in the 2026 class, according to On3 industry rankings .
Local and national outlets have taken note of the impact. WBRZ highlighted that Cooley becomes the second Mississippi OL commit behind Tucker, calling July 4 “felt more like Christmas” for LSU’s recruiting . On3 added that Cooley is LSU’s 13th verbal commitment and that the addition “pushes the Tigers back into the Top 5” .
With this trio of Magnolia State recruits—Tucker, Cooley, and Keys—locked in, LSU has established a commanding presence in Mississippi. The Tigers now have a strong chance to land a fourth border-state prospect, Jase Mathews, a top‑3 wide receiver target .
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In summary:
LSU has expertly capitalized on its momentum in Mississippi, piling up elite talent with curated visits and relationships. Securing both top offensive linemen and the nation’s premier wideout from the same state is an uncommon recruiting achievement. With momentum building, LSU’s 2026 class is shaping up as one of the strongest in the country.
Expect LSU’s efforts to intensify on Jase Mathews soon, as the Tigers look to solidify a dominant regional class.