Brian Kelly and his LSU football staff are employing a strategic and dedicated approach to recruiting top in-state talent, particularly targeting elite defensive linemen. One of their key targets is Dylan Berymon, the No. 2 defensive lineman in Louisiana from Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe. Berymon, a four-star recruit, has attracted interest from multiple powerhouse programs, including Texas, Missouri, USC, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, and Notre Dame. LSU’s focus on building relationships with top-tier local players like Berymon underscores their commitment to establishing a dominant defensive presence for future seasons.
The recruitment process is marked by meticulous planning and personalized attention. Brian Kelly’s staff prioritizes building trust and showcasing LSU’s developmental capabilities. For players like Berymon, the staff emphasizes the opportunity to compete at the highest level in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) while staying close to home. This approach resonates with Louisiana athletes who value representing their state on a national stage.
Another notable recruitment effort involves Jahkeem Stewart, a five-star defensive lineman from Edna Karr High School. Stewart, who reclassified to the 2025 recruiting class, has been a focal point for several elite programs, including USC, Ohio State, and Oregon. During his visit to LSU, Stewart had a direct meeting with Coach Kelly, highlighting the program’s emphasis on fostering personal connections with prospects. These interactions aim to convey LSU’s vision for the player’s development and their role in the team’s future success.
What sets Kelly’s strategy apart is LSU’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. The staff leverages the program’s rich history of producing NFL talent while emphasizing Kelly’s modern approach to player development and team-building. By focusing on holistic development—both on and off the field—LSU offers recruits a comprehensive package that combines competitive success, professional opportunities, and academic support.
Ultimately, the secret behind Brian Kelly and his staff’s recruiting success lies in their relentless effort, attention to detail, and ability to connect with athletes on a personal level. By targeting elite in-state talent like Berymon and Stewart, they are positioning LSU as a perennial contender in the SEC and solidifying the foundation for sustained success in college football.
