​The LSU Tigers have been pursuing several offensive linemen in the 2027 recruiting class, but their efforts hit a snag after Kal’El Johnson chose Georgia Tech over LSU and several other major programs. Johnson, a four-star tackle from Cincinnati, Ohio, sits among the top prospects in his class, holding a Rivals industry composite rating around 90.35. He is ranked as the No. 17 tackle nationally and the No. 11 player in Ohio. Despite multiple visits to Baton Rouge, Johnson ultimately committed to Georgia Tech, rejecting LSU, Ohio State, Indiana, North Carolina, Penn State, and Auburn. Georgia Tech’s win over LSU in this recruitment signals that the Yellow Jackets are becoming more attractive to top linemen, even as LSU remains a traditionally powerful program.
LSU still sits with the No. 11 recruiting class nationally and No. 5 in the SEC, featuring one five-star and nine four-star commitments. However, losing Johnson stings specifically on the offensive line, where LSU currently has only one interior lineman and one tackle in the class, making Johnson a natural fit they missed. LSU does have other offensive line options, including Miller Westerfield, and coach Lane Kiffin is known for closing strong on the trail, so the program isn’t panicking over this single miss. There remains time in the 2027 cycle for LSU to address the tackle position as they continue to refine their class. This recap originates from A to Z Sports, which notes that Kiffin and the Tigers will look to rebound on the recruiting trail.