LSU secured a major commitment from Franklin Parish’s own Dezyrian “Dez” Ellis, reinforcing the program’s focus on national—and particularly Louisiana—recruiting. Ellis, a 6‑foot‑2 two‑way standout, becomes the first-ever LSU football commitment from Franklin Parish, marking a historic milestone for both parties .
He announced his pledge on June 28, 2025, ending speculation and closing the door on other suitors. Alongside his high school exploits—throwing for 2,189 yards and 31 TDs as a quarterback—LSU projects him as a future lockdown corner, highlighting his speed, length, and ball skills . Cornerbacks coach Corey Raymond emphasized Ellis’s versatility, praising his ability to shift roles and his adaptability to LSU’s defensive scheme.
LSU has strategically targeted in‑state talent, and Ellis is the seventh Louisiana native in the Tigers’ 2026 class. His commitment follows those of top recruits like Richard Anderson, Jabari Mack, Aiden Hall, Brysten Martinez, Kenny Darby, and Jalan Chapman — all of whom bolster LSU’s local pipeline .
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🔁 Depth at Corner: How Ellis Complements Prior 2025 Picks
LSU isn’t just banking on next year—they’ve built a formidable 2025 cornerback room that includes:
DJ Pickett – A 5‑star, On3’s No. 1 cornerback nationally; brings elite length (6’3–6’4 with a 6’11″ wingspan), track speed, and positional versatility .
Kade Phillips – Also a 5‑star cornerback (No. 4 nationally), originally a Texas pledge flipped by LSU; praised for his athleticism, size, and two‑way football ability .
Aidan Anding – An in‑state talent from Ruston who committed in August 2024; ranked as Louisiana’s top cornerback and adds essential depth .
This trio positions LSU among the nation’s elite at defensive back, earning recognition as possibly the top 2025 unit at the position .
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📈 A Strategy that’s Paying Dividends
Head coach Brian Kelly has emphasized local recruiting, and his strategy is showing results. LSU currently holds the No. 1 recruiting class in the SEC for 2026, with momentum fueled by both in‑state standouts and top national names .
Ellis’s emergence is more than just another commitment — it’s an emblem of LSU’s return to being “DBU” (Defensive Back University). Under Raymond’s direction, LSU has built a reputation for turning underrated high school DBs into high-caliber collegiate (and NFL-ready) talent. Ellis embodies that rise.
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🔜 What’s Next? More Commits Likely…
LSU’s recruiting calendar is heating up:
Bayou Splash — Recently hosted high-profile junior prospects in Baton Rouge, including several top‑2027 athletes, and is expected to pivot to sealing 2026 targets .
Pressure on targets — LSU remains in contention for Louisiana’s top cornerback prospects—such as Hayward Howard Jr. and others .
Summer recruiting events and official campus visits will be critical in finalizing commitments. LSU’s recent successes could tip the scales for those still deciding.
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🌟 Final Word
LSU’s cornerback haul, led by DJ Pickett, Phillips, Anding, and now Ellis, cements a defensive class that blends elite out‑of‑state talent with hard‑nosed local standouts. Ellis’s commitment is a breakthrough for Franklin Parish and emblematic of LSU’s renewed in‑state dominance. With more high-end prospects in play and summer showcase events scheduled, Brian Kelly and his staff could further solidify LSU’s reputation as a top destination for defensive backs.
Expect LSU to continue building momentum and making headlines as signing day approaches.
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