In a stunning development on the college football recruiting front, five-star cornerback DJ Pickett has flipped his commitment from LSU to the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Pickett, one of the top-rated defensive backs in the 2025 recruiting class, made the announcement on social media earlier today, shaking up the landscape of college football.
Pickett, who initially committed to LSU in the summer of 2024, cited a strong connection with Nebraska’s coaching staff and the program’s vision for the future as primary factors in his decision. He chose the Huskers over other top-tier programs, including Tennessee, Clemson, and Alabama, all of which were vying for his talents.
Nebraska’s Recruiting Triumph
For Nebraska, this commitment marks a monumental victory on the recruiting trail. Head Coach Matt Rhule and his staff have made significant strides in attracting elite talent to Lincoln, and securing a player of Pickett’s caliber is a testament to their efforts.
Pickett, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound standout from Zephyrhills, Florida, is widely regarded as a game-changing talent. Known for his lockdown coverage skills, physicality, and exceptional football IQ, he has been a cornerstone target for nearly every major program in the country.
Nebraska’s defensive coordinator has played a pivotal role in selling the program to Pickett, emphasizing how his skills fit seamlessly into the Huskers’ defensive schemes. “Nebraska showed me how I could make an immediate impact and grow as a player and person,” Pickett said in his statement.
LSU and SEC Powerhouses Miss Out
LSU, long considered a dominant force in recruiting, particularly in the SEC, is left reeling from this loss. Pickett was expected to be a key figure in their 2025 class, and his departure leaves a significant gap.
Alabama, Clemson, and Tennessee also pushed hard for Pickett in the weeks leading up to his decision. All three programs boast strong defensive traditions and championship pedigrees, but Nebraska’s unique pitch ultimately swayed Pickett.
What’s Next for Pickett and Nebraska
With his decision now final, Pickett is expected to become a cornerstone for Nebraska’s defense in the coming years. His commitment signals Nebraska’s resurgence on the national stage and their ability to compete with perennial powerhouses for elite talent.
This development underscores the ever-evolving nature of college football recruiting, where relationships, fit, and opportunity can outweigh tradition and legacy. Nebraska fans have every reason to be excited about
what the future holds.