Five-star Texas commit Easton Royal is still pledged to the Longhorns, but LSU’s push, his Baton Rouge visits and blazing speed keep the drama alive.
Texas football still has Easton Royal in its 2026 recruiting class, but LSU isn’t letting the five-star wide receiver leave Louisiana without a fight.
Royal, the explosive Brother Martin standout from New Orleans, committed to Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns shortly after Texas beat Texas A&M at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium in November.
Since then, the pressure around his recruitment has only grown. LSU has made Royal a major priority, with Lane Kiffin pushing hard to flip one of the state’s most electric playmakers.
For now, Royal keeps saying he’s committed to Texas. But he’s also been honest about keeping the door open.
“You only get this process once,” Royal told Fox 8 in New Orleans, while explaining that he’s still trying to make the right decision for himself and his family.
That’s exactly why this recruitment has become such a storyline. Royal has continued visiting Baton Rouge, and LSU’s top 2026 commit, Lamar Brown, has publicly leaned into the “keep Louisiana talent home” message.
The Tigers are also expected to get Royal on campus for an official visit later this month.
Royal gave the conversation even more life at the LHSAA State Track Meet, where he ran a blazing 10.17 seconds in the 100-meter dash to set a Louisiana state record.
Kiffin was there, Royal was seen wearing LSU gear, and the five-star receiver hinted that a final decision date could be coming.
That’s not a small deal. Royal isn’t the biggest receiver at 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, but his production and speed are elite.
He posted more than 2,000 all-purpose yards with 29 touchdowns and has reportedly run an unofficial 4.29-second 40-yard dash.
Texas still has his pledge. LSU still has hope. And until Royal signs, this one isn’t over.