In a stunning turn of events, highly touted tight end prospect Terrance Carter has opted to commit elsewhere, delivering a major blow to LSU’s 2025 recruiting efforts. The 6-foot-5, 240-pound standout from Georgia, widely regarded as one of the top tight ends in the nation, had been heavily pursued by the Tigers and was thought to be leaning toward LSU as recently as last week. However, Carter announced his surprising decision to commit to the University of Texas, leaving LSU fans and coaching staff reeling.
Carter’s commitment is a coup for the Longhorns, who have steadily built momentum on the recruiting trail under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Known for his blend of size, speed, and pass-catching ability, Carter is expected to be a game-changing addition to Texas’s offensive scheme. His decision highlights the ongoing competition between SEC and Big 12 (soon-to-be-SEC) programs for elite talent in the South.
LSU had made Carter a priority in this recruiting cycle, with head coach Brian Kelly and tight ends coach John David Baker visiting him multiple times and hosting him on an official visit earlier this year. Carter had expressed admiration for LSU’s offensive system and its history of developing NFL-caliber tight ends, leading many to believe Baton Rouge was his likely destination.
However, Carter cited Texas’s program culture and his connection with their coaching staff as key factors in his decision. “I felt at home in Austin,” Carter said during his announcement. “Coach Sarkisian’s vision for how I fit into their offense really stood out to me. It was a tough decision, but I’m confident this is the right place for me.”
For LSU, Carter’s decision underscores the challenges of competing in an increasingly crowded recruiting landscape. While the Tigers still boast a strong recruiting class, missing out on a player of Carter’s caliber is a setback, particularly as LSU seeks to solidify its offensive weapons for the future.
Despite the disappointment, LSU will likely turn its attention to other top tight end prospects still on the board, aiming to fill the void left by Carter’s commitment. With several months until National Signing Day, the Tigers have time to regroup, but the loss of Terrance Carter will undoubtedly sting for some time.
