LSU football continued its momentum on the recruiting trail with a pair of major additions to its 2026 class on July 4. The Tigers secured commitments from two rising prospects — four-star safety Marcus Ray out of Georgia and three-star offensive lineman Tyrone Simmons from Louisiana. With these pledges, LSU further solidified its position among the nation’s elite recruiting programs for the 2026 cycle.
Marcus Ray, a dynamic 6-foot-1, 185-pound safety from Buford High School, chose LSU over offers from Alabama, Georgia, and Florida State. Known for his ball-hawking instincts and aggressive downhill play, Ray has impressed scouts with his range and ability to read offenses. His commitment gives LSU a true centerpiece in the secondary, as head coach Brian Kelly and defensive backs coach Kerry Cooks look to restore the Tigers’ legacy of elite defensive back play — famously dubbed “DBU.”
Ray announced his decision via social media, stating, “I want to be part of something special at LSU. The energy, the tradition, and the relationships I’ve built with the coaches made this feel like home.”
Joining Ray is local standout Tyrone Simmons, a 6-foot-5, 310-pound offensive lineman from Baton Rouge’s Woodlawn High. Simmons, considered a raw but physically gifted lineman, has steadily risen up recruiting boards thanks to his athleticism and footwork. LSU offensive line coach Brad Davis has long prioritized in-state talent, and locking in Simmons ensures the Tigers continue building depth in the trenches.
For LSU, these additions mark a significant step toward securing a top-5 recruiting class in 2026. With nine total commitments now in the fold, the Tigers are striking a balance between in-state dominance and national reach.
Coach Brian Kelly praised the class’s early progress, saying, “We’re focused on bringing in players who fit our culture and want to compete at the highest level. Marcus and Tyrone bring that mentality. They’re great athletes and even better young men.”
The momentum appears far from slowing down, as