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2009 recruiting class taking shape
By Benjamin Relle
With just one week to go until National Signing Day, the LSU Tigers are trying to solidify the No.1 recruiting class in the nation. 20 recruits have already announced their intentions to play for the Tigers in 2009. Several of these recruits, including Russell Shepard, Chris Garrett, Kevin Minter, and Drayton Calhoun are already on campus. But, there are still some very talented players out there that LSU is interested in signing. These decisions could give Les Miles and his team a huge boost going into next season.
The biggest name is wide receiver prospect Reuben Randle from Bastrop High School. The 6’3” 195 pound Randle played out of position at quarterback this season, but is still by far the best receiver prospect in the country. Randle’s versatility and work ethic should make him an immediate contributor wherever he ends up. With just seven days to go, Randle is still choosing between Oklahoma, Auburn, Alabama, and LSU. If he were to choose the Tigers, Randle would fill a huge void in the receiving core left by the departure of Demetrius Byrd to graduation and Ricky Dixon’s transfer. Randle would be immediately plugged in alongside returning senior Brandon LaFell and Junior Terrance Toliver, who is poised for a breakout season. His arrival would also clinch the No.1 class in the country for the Tigers.
With depth at receiver an issue, LSU is looking for more guys that can come in and contribute. Another extremely talented receiver prospect is Kendall Kelly. Kelly is a big target at 6’4” 210 pounds. Kelly’s decision may come down to where Randle decides to go. If Randle chooses LSU, Kelly may head to Alabama. But if Randle goes to Alabama, Kelly may come to LSU. It doesn’t look like the Tigers can sign both of these talented receivers. Clemson is also a dark horse in the running to sign Kelly.
Another talented prospect, defensive lineman Sam Montgomery, was on the LSU campus this past weekend. Montgomery is an explosive pass rusher coming off the edge with 4.44 40-yard dash speed. The Tigers could use Montgomery to help sure up the depth on the defensive line after losing a handful of guys to graduation and the NFL. North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee are some schools LSU will be fighting for Montgomery’s services.
Another name that has been coming up lately had been tailback Trent Richardson. Richardson is the rated as the second best running back in the 2009 class and gave Alabama a soft commitment some time ago. But, there has been speculation that Richardson could be swayed out of his commitment to the Tide. Richardson and Russell Shepard have forged a friendship as of late and rumors have the talented tailback thinking about coming to LSU. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like this will happen after Richardson’s visit to Baton Rouge this past weekend.
The Tigers did get some good news this weekend as five-star cornerback prospect Janzen Jackson reaffirmed his commitment to LSU. It was said that Jackson might jump ship and head to Tennessee where his father had strong connections. But after his visit to LSU, Jackson said he is secure with his decision to play for the Tigers.
With February 4 rapidly approaching, it will be interesting to see how the final pieces of the Tigers’ recruiting class come together. After a disappointing season in 2008, LSU has reloaded at many positions and will have a bright outlook on the future of this program.
Originally Published: January 28, 2009