LSU football has once again secured a crucial in-state win on the recruiting trail, earning a verbal commitment from standout 2026 defensive back Isaiah Washington. The Louisiana native, regarded as one of the top young defensive backs in the state, announced his pledge to the Tigers over the weekend, strengthening LSU’s future in the secondary and reaffirming the program’s dominance in keeping elite homegrown talent close to Baton Rouge.
Washington, who stars at John Curtis Christian School — a perennial Louisiana powerhouse — is already drawing national attention for his blend of athleticism, instincts, and football IQ. Despite being just a rising junior, Washington has showcased skills well beyond his years, locking down receivers, making big plays in the open field, and flashing versatility that coaches at the next level covet.
Measuring in at 6-foot and around 180 pounds, Washington brings size and physicality to the defensive backfield. He’s fluid in coverage, aggressive in run support, and has a high football ceiling with plenty of development ahead. His ability to play both corner and safety makes him a valuable chess piece for defensive coordinators.
LSU’s pursuit of Washington began early, and the Tigers’ coaching staff made it a priority to build a relationship with him and his family. Head coach Brian Kelly and defensive backs coach Kerry Cooks played a major role in securing the commitment, consistently emphasizing player development, academics, and the family atmosphere within the program. That message clearly resonated with Washington.
“The culture, the coaches, the legacy — everything about LSU felt right,” Washington said after making his decision. “It’s home. I grew up watching the Tigers, and now I get to be part of that tradition.”
This commitment is especially significant for LSU, as Washington’s announcement continues a recent run of in-state recruiting wins. Locking down top Louisiana talent has long been the foundation of the Tigers’ success, and Isaiah Washington fits the mold of the kind of high-character, high-upside player the program wants to build around.
With Washington in the fold, LSU’s 2026 class is beginning to take shape, and it’s clear the staff is focusing heavily on shoring up the defensive secondary. His addition could also influence other in-state prospects to follow suit, especially as momentum continues to grow around the program.
Recruiting experts have praised the move as both smart and strategic. “Washington is one of the most polished DBs we’ve seen at this stage in the cycle,” said one analyst. “He’s not just a physical athlete — he understands the game, and he’s only going to get better.”
For LSU, landing Isaiah Washington is more than just a recruiting win — it’s a statement. The Tigers continue to assert themselves as the destination for Louisiana’s elite prospects, and with Washington now on board, the 2026 class has officially started with a bang.