LSU makes top schools for 5-star DB DJ Pickett
Zephyrhills (Fla.) five-star defensive back DJ Pickett received an offer from LSU as an eighth grader. Now the Tigers are right in the thick of it for him, making his Top 5 schools.
Georgia, Michigan, Miami, and Oregon also made the cut, he told On3.
“LSU is DBU and just the relationship I have with coach Raymond stood out,” Pickett told On3’s Hayes Fawcett. “I wanna be a part of that class they are building.”
LSU linebackers coach Blake Baker and defensive backs coach Corey Raymond were on staff when Pickett added his LSU offer years ago. Now, both are back in the Purple and Gold and hosted Pickett for a key visit in 2024.
The Tigers are now a “school to watch” for the 6-foot-3, 170-pound defensive back. Brian Kelly and his staff made a move during his unofficial visit to Baton Rouge right before the dead period.
“I could definitely tell that I was needed, not just wanted,” Pickett told On3. “That plays a role. They told me that once I come in and work, I’ll have a chance to compete and be a starter. That’s pretty big because that’s something I want to do.”
Pickett also enjoyed his discussion with the Tigers’ head man. Kelly is heading into his third year leading LSU.
“It was really getting to know him and learning his background,” Pickett said. “He said that they’re building something special there and he said that if I go to LSU, I’m going to win.”
LSU DB target DJ Pickett scouting summary
“Dynamic, explosive two-way playmaker who looks like one of the top defensive back prospects in the 2025 cycle. A big-time two-way player as a receiver and defensive back. Has a thin, lean frame at over 6-foot-2 and around 170 pounds. An extremely twitchy athlete who also excels in track and field. Turned in sensational marks in the 100 meters (10.62 seconds) and 200 meters (21.69 seconds) as a sophomore.
“A natural playmaker on Friday nights. Pairs his plus athleticism and easy movement skills with high level instincts and ball skills. Has elite range as a deep safety. Reads and jumps routes to make plays on the ball. Doubles as a game-breaking receiver with the ability to take the top off of defenses and come down with acrobatic contested catches.
“Finished his sophomore season with 43 catches for 886 yards and 12 touchdowns in addition to picking off four passes. Ranked as a safety early on, but could be a legitimate high-end cornerback prospect or even play some offense in college. A bit for the cycle, with a May birthday. Will need to continue adding good mass to his leaner frame.”
According to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies, he’s the No. 7 overall prospect, No. 1 safety in the country and No. 1 prospect in Florida.
