LSU’s football coaching staff continues to actively extend offers for the 2026 recruitment cycle, with two significant scholarships recently awarded. Last week, they offered a spot to Dia Bell, ranked as the second-best quarterback in the nation. Bell, a four-star prospect from Ft. Lauderdale’s American Heritage High School, received the offer from Joe Sloan and his team, marking a significant development in his recruitment journey. LSU had previously hosted Bell for a visit during the fall, providing him with a firsthand experience of game day at the university. Dia Bell, son of former NBA player Raja Bell, has also explored opportunities at other prominent programs such as Miami, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio State, and Penn State.
Truly blessed and grateful to receive an offer from @LSUfootball 🐅 #GeauxTigers #AGTG @CoachBrianKelly @CoachJoeSloan @LSUFBrecruiting pic.twitter.com/ld8LmHW7rC
— Dia Bell 2026 QB (@DiaBell3QB1) February 10, 2024
Last week, Brian Kelly and the Tigers extended an offer to Faizon Brandon, the third-ranked quarterback in the nation for the 2026 cycle. Brandon hails from Greensboro, North Carolina, where he plays for Grimsley High School.
Brandon, a highly rated prospect in the 2026 class, is currently experiencing a remarkable streak in his recruitment journey.
Hailing from North Carolina, Brandon has garnered 16 scholarship offers as he gears up for his junior season. Standing tall at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 185 pounds, he represents Greensboro’s Grimsley High School, where he led the team to an impressive 13-1 record during his sophomore year.
The quarterback market for Joe Sloan and his team is undergoing strategic planning. With the departure of Jayden Daniels, the reigning Heisman winner, Garrett Nussmeier is poised to step into the role as the next quarterback for the Tigers.
Following Nussmeier, LSU anticipates a wealth of talent, particularly with the addition of 5-star recruit Bryce Underwood from the 2025 class. Underwood, ranked as the top player nationwide, announced his commitment to LSU on January 6, causing a stir in the college football recruiting landscape.
Underwood’s commitment signifies a monumental victory for LSU, and the coaching staff, led by Brian Kelly and Joe Sloan, continue to actively pursue him, recently visiting him in Michigan.
This recruitment coup elevates LSU’s status in the 2025 cycle, with Underwood joining other top talents like Harlem Berry (ranked as the top running back) and Dakorien Moore (top wide receiver). This trio of elite prospects is expected to have a profound impact on the program for years to come.
Regarding Underwood, his commitment carries significant weight. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 210 pounds, he is considered one of the top prospects of all time. LSU’s persistent efforts in recruiting him paid off, culminating in his verbal commitment.
Despite the verbal commitment, the battle for Underwood’s services continues until he officially signs in December. However, LSU remains firmly committed to securing his talent, as evidenced by their ongoing efforts, including additional visits to Michigan.
Underwood has maintained a discreet approach to his recruitment, but his actions, including multiple visits to LSU and personal milestones celebrated with his family in Louisiana, indicate his strong interest. Additionally, Joe Sloan’s meticulous attention to detail in the recruitment process has significantly contributed to LSU’s success in securing Underwood’s commitment.
As the Underwood recruitment saga unfolds, LSU remains determined to solidify their position as the ultimate destination for one of the most highly touted recruits in recent memory.
