LSU entered National Signature Day a week ago with one of the top five classes, and Tigers left the day in 4th place at 247Sports Team Rankings with three scholarship slots still available.
On Tuesday, one of those vacancies was filled when LSU got a four-star verbal commitment Brian Thomas Jr., which is rated by 247Sports as the number 9 potential customer nationwide. It is a consensus among the 100 best potential customers in the 247Sports ranking and in the 247Sports Composite.
The compromise pushed LSU over Georgia in 247Sports Team Rankings, and the Tigers are now in the country’s third class, just behind Alabama and Ohio State.
It is massive news for an LSU program that is coming out of a 5-5 season, and now the team has added a fifth wide receiver to the class. LSU previously signed with Chris Hilton, Deion Smith, Malik Nabers and Jack Bech as part of the initial December subscription period.
“I think that only with physical gifts, Rueben Randle it’s a very good comparison, “Walker High coach Chad Mahaffey told the Geaux247 team.” Brian may have achieved a little more natural and physical explosion with the ball. Rueben was a very good and very developed athlete. Definitely, some differences, but again, that kind of guy of being the size – he’s not a skinny kid, he has a physique and can do anything. Brian also made some important plays for us defensively. It helps in the three phases for sure. ”
When it came to getting an appointment from Thomas, it was all work for the team at Baton Rouge.
LSU wide receiver trainer Mickey Joseph, running back trainer and area recruiter Kevin Faulkoffensive analyst Carter Sheridan and coach Ed Orgeron were all among the coaches who controlled the state’s No. 2 overall outlook last year, which contributed greatly to the Tigers recovering from the talented state outlook.
“They got a good state school in terms of education,” said Thomas. “First class locker rooms, everything is top notch. Good school, I mean phenomenal atmosphere and good coaches, and national champions.”
Thomas chose LSU from a double-digit offer list that was reduced to three teams, with Tigers joining Texas A&M and Alabama.
As a junior in 2019, Thomas recorded 75 receptions for 1,272 yards and 17 touchdowns, making him one of the most productive game makers. As a veteran last fall, he took 30 passes for 507 yards and seven touchdowns.
Here’s what 247Sports recruiting analyst Gabe Brooks said about Thomas as a prospect, comparing him to former Baylor star and New York Jets debutant Denzel Mims.
“Tall, long external receiver with functional athletic ability to move through training. Ample space on the board to add the mass needed in college. Basketball player who reported ID offers. Athletics and the ability to win the ball reflect the basketball jump. Shows good body control and timing in high-end situations Dangerous red-zone weapon that can win balls over defenders Displays good initial speed on the first lateral move to promote impressive running after reception. Open it like a field advanced long stride speed construction. It has a large receiving radius and generally keeps the ball away from your body as a catcher. Great production as a junior, but decreased as a senior. better leverage defenders at intervals like a route-runner. One of the top two players in a stellar state class in Louisia at. Projects as a major holder for several years with long term potential for the NFL Draft. “
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