Former LSU commit and two-sport star at Ponchatoula High School in Louisiana is set to announce his commitment on Wednesday evening. However, one report from On3 has the Tigers out of the running for the No. 2 safety in the country.
Mathews originally committed to LSU in April of 2021, choosing the Tigers over Arizona State, Clemson, Florida, Texas, and USC. He then re-opened his recruitment in late July. LSU made a coaching change moving on from Ed Orgeron to Brian Kelly after the 2021 season and Mathews’ recruitment has remained open during that period.
Down the stretch, head coach Brian Kelly made Jacoby Mathews a top priority for this recruiting class. Mathews had an on-campus visit, with another top recruit, linebacker Harold Perkins, on Jan. 28.
🚨JUST IN: Coming into #SigningDay, all indications were that five-star Jacoby Mathews was going to end up at LSU. However, that might not be the case after all, according to a report from @BillyEmbody. (On3+) #GeauxTigers #GigEm👍 #GoGators #NSD2022 https://t.co/pTEECE80pD
— On3 Recruits (@On3Recruits) February 2, 2022
All signs were pointing to LSU landing the highly coveted safety in their 2022 class but according to Billy Embody, things have changed. It appears that the Texas A&M bagmen have come through
“It’s over for LSU and Jacoby Mathews,” Embody reported. – via On3’s report on Mathews (subscription required)
The LSU defense could have used Mathews but they did add Lafayette Christian’s Jordan Allen at the position. The team also went into the transfer portal to snag former Arkansas Razorbacks safety Joe Foucha. As far as beyond the 2022 season, safety should be an emphasis in the 2023 class.
After landing a commitment from Jaelyn Davis-Robinson to kick-off signing day, the Tigers appear to be whiffing on two of their top three recruits on the day. Harold Perkins will announce his decision at 1:15 p.m. CT.
We will find out if Brian Kelly can salvage this day. They are also waiting on the announcements of Caleb Douglas and Danny Lewis Jr.
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