2026 class prospect & 4-star DL JaReylan McCoy narrows down his commitment to top 12 schools: Reports

Four-star defensive lineman JaReylan McCoy, from Tupelo High School in Mississippi, is one of the early top defensive linemen in the 2026 recruiting class. Standing tall at 6-foot-7 and weighing 240 pounds, McCoy has attracted attention since his freshman year. He has accumulated offers from prominent programs across the Big Ten, Big 12 and SEC.

McCoy is still looking for more offers, but he has already listed his top 12 programs. The list features Arkansas, Penn State, Auburn, Georgia Tech, LSU, Kentucky, Louisville, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Mississippi State, Oregon and Tennessee.

“These schools have been consistent with the conversation and just getting to know my family instead of making it all about football,” McCoy said ( via On3). “Another thing is the schooling and how they have some good programs that can help me in the long run."

McCoy's selection criteria also revolve around the personal connections and academic offerings of the schools.

“Most of the schools in my top are schools that took the time to look over my film and break down what I could do differently. They just fill me up with better moves and try to help me get better.”

McCoy is the No. 4 prospect in Mississippi, No. 4 defensive lineman in the 2026 class and No. 57 prospect, according to On3. 247 Sports ranks him as the No. 6 prospect in Mississippi, No. 12 defensive lineman in the class and No. 132 prospect.

In his freshman season, McCoy racked up 70 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks, contributing to Tupelo's 13-1 record. He also excels in basketball and proved his athleticism with a 4.89-second 40-yard dash at Student Sports’ All-22 camp.

Ole Miss and LSU trending for JaReylan McCoy's commitment

According to On3 Recruiting Machine, Ole Miss leads the way with a 74.4% chance of securing JaReylan McCoy's pledge.

The Rebels have been courting McCoy for some time, having extended an offer to him on April 29, 2022.

He has also shown interest in the Rebels, making unofficial visits to their campus on January 29 and March 25 of last year. Ole Miss' 2026 recruiting class currently lacks any committed players.

LSU holds an 11.7% chance of landing McCoy. The Tigers' defensive line coach, Jimmy Lindsey, was crucial in piquing McCoy's interest by reaching out to his head coach. Lindsey's reputation and coaching prowess have made a strong impression on McCoy.

"He’s a good d-line coach," McCoy told On3. "He will show you anything you need. He’s just that coach."

Lindsey also praised McCoy's potential, saying (Sports Mississippi):

“When he gets coached up more he will be a monster.”

LSU has already secured commitments from four-star defensive lineman Richard Anderson and three-star safety Jakai Anderson for their 2026 class.