Top 3 landing spots for 2026 class prospect Jahkeem Stewart ft. Oregon

Jahkeem Stewart, a highly touted defensive lineman from Reserve, Louisiana, is creating quite a stir among elite college football programs. Regarded as the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2026 class by 247Sports Composite, the 6-foot-4, 285-pound Stewart's recruitment journey is closely followed, with major programs vying for his commitment.

Stewart's packed visit schedule includes stops at LSU, USC, Texas and Ohio State as he contemplates a potential reclassification to the 2025 class.

Top 3 contenders for five-star Jahkeem Stewart's commitment

#3. Oregon Ducks

The Oregon Ducks could see them land one of the nation's top prospects and their second elite defensive lineman in the 2026 class. Coach Dan Lanning has prioritized bolstering the defensive line annually, and Stewart fits perfectly into this strategy. Oregon already boasts a commitment from On3's No. 2 defensive lineman in the 2026 class, Tony Cumberland.

Jahkeem Stewart has visited Eugene multiple times, including trips in April and June, with another visit slated for Oct. 12 for the Ohio State showdown. Reflecting on his impressions, Stewart said:

“I love what they got going right now.”

#2. Ohio State Buckeyes

Ohio State is another strong contender in Jahkeem Stewart's recruitment. The Buckeyes have made a lasting impression, especially through the efforts of defensive line coach Larry Johnson. Stewart participated in a camp at OSU in June and plans to return for the high-stakes rivalry game against Michigan on Nov. 30.

Stewart had high praise for the Buckeyes' coaching staff, saying:

“Coach Johnson is one of the best defensive line coaches in college football history. Getting to do the drills, he got the people that are making a lot of money in the league and going first round it shows why he is what he is."

The alignment of Ohio State’s defensive scheme with Stewart's skill set makes the program an attractive option.

“I feel like I could fit perfectly in the defense,” Stewart told Eleven Warriors. “With the technique coach Johnson’s teaching, and me being the person I am, my second effort, I want it more than a lot of these kids out here."

#1. LSU Tigers

As the home-state powerhouse, LSU holds a unique appeal for Jahkeem Stewart. His connections to the program run deep, with numerous visits to the Baton Rouge campus and a strong relationship with the coaching staff.

Jahkeem Stewart's trainer, Clyde Alexander from Edge Assassins, confirmed that Stewart would be back at LSU soon, adding to his familiarity and comfort with the school. Stewart has expressed a deep affection for LSU:

“I love it every time I visit the campus. The fans, the food, the environment—it’s home. Coach Frank (Wilson) is always giving me life advice outside of football. My big bro Shone (Washington) plays there now. I like LSU but I’m not opposed to going to school out of state.”

His connection to defensive line coach Bo Davis, who recently rejoined LSU from Texas, is particularly significant. Stewart appreciates Davis's old-school approach.

“Coach Davis develops and prepares you to play on Sundays,” Stewart said.

His impressive sophomore season stats include 85 tackles, 33 tackles for loss, six forced fumbles and 20 sacks.