Brian Kelly's LSU lands commitment from five-star CB DJ Pickett to the class of 2025

The LSU Tigers have secured a commitment from five-star cornerback DJ Pickett for their 2025 class. Pickett, who ranks as the No. 3 cornerback and the No. 9 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting cycle, per 247Sports, chose LSU over offers from Oregon and Miami.

Pickett, a standout at Zephyrhills High School in Tampa, Florida, is recognized as one of the premier defensive back prospects in the nation. According to On3, he is ranked as the No. 1 cornerback and the No. 6 overall recruit.

Pickett’s decision was heavily influenced by his overall happiness and growth opportunities both on and off the field, as highlighted by his father, Damien.

“The deciding factor was him being happy,” Damien Pickett said. “It was mostly football-based but also where he feels he can excel in the classroom and do the things in the classroom.” [via On3].

Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 180 pounds, DJ Pickett counts as the 17th pledge for LSU's 2025 recruiting class. The On3 Industry evaluates him as the country’s No. 2 cornerback and No. 6 overall prospect. Before his decision, LSU was the fifth-best in the country, according to On3.

DJ Pickett's interest in LSU was cemented by multiple visits to Baton Rouge: a game last autumn, a spring excursion, and his formal visit in late May.

With this commitment, LSU hopes to improve its defensive performance, which ranked 115th nationally in passing yards allowed last season.

DJ Pickett feels Coach Raymond is best man to learn from

Defensive backs coach Corey Raymond played an important part in Pickett's recruitment. Pickett is the On3 Industry's top-ranked prospect in Florida, giving LSU's secondary a big boost.

"If you a DB and coach Raymond is at LSU, I feel like that’s the right place to be at," Pickett said.

Pickett's commitment marks a significant addition to LSU's already impressive recruiting haul.

DJ Pickett joins top-rated quarterback Bryce Underwood and standout running back Harlem Berry. Pickett's decision was also influenced by LSU's competitive edge and its potential to contend for a national championship.

"I’m coming to be the next great DB that came through LSU," Pickett added. "We coming to win a national championship, and I’m ready to take over."

As a junior, DJ Pickett racked up 52 receptions for 1,033 yards and 15 touchdowns, complemented by 31 tackles and an interception on defense.