LSU HC Lane Kiffin visits 5-star in-state offensive lineman

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LSU‘s previous staff was the first to offer in-state star Albert Simien, Rivals’ top interior offensive line prospect, all the way back in October 2024. He has since blossomed into one of the nation’s premier 2027 prospects.

And Lane Kiffin and his staff are looking to keep the momentum going with Simien after taking over in Baton Rouge earlier this month.

Offensive line coach Eric Wolford saw Simien at Lake Charles (La.) Sam Houston last week. And this week it was Kiffin, who stopped by to see his basketball practice.

He and other LSU staffers have made a fast impression as they work to keep pace with Notre Dame and Texas A&M in this race.

“I’ve talked to the new staff a few times now and I’ve gotten to know them a little bit — how they coach and what their personalities are like,” Simien told Rivals’s Sam Spiegelman. “The new staff has been pushing that I’m a high priority for them.”

Along with the Bayou Bengals, Simien is a top target for Alabama, Auburn, Nebraska, Tennessee, LSU, Ole Miss and Notre Dame, among others. Coaches from those schools have also stopped by to see him over the past few weeks, and he was set to spend last weekend at Texas A&M before weather affected their junior day.

According to Spiegelman, there are a few key teams to watch in addition to the Aggies.

“Alabama, LSU and Notre Dame are also trending to get the 5-star OL back to campus with a decision brewing,” he wrote last week. “We’re also keeping a close eye on the Irish in this one.”

Scouting Albert Simien

Rivals’ Director of Scouting and Rankings Charles Power broke down Simien’s game this fall:

“He is a dominant interior offensive line prospect whose combination of length, functional mobility, and balance makes him one of the top linemen in the 2027 cycle. Measured just under 6-foot-3 and around 270 pounds prior to his junior season with plus length, including 34-inch arms. Lines up at left tackle for his high school, where he consistently controls the line of scrimmage. Dominant run blocker who manipulates defenders with his length, strength, and coordination. Moves easily to the second level and maintains leverage to seal running lanes. Has outstanding lower body flexibility as a mover. Equally effective in pass protection with controlled feet and strong balance in his set. Rarely off-platform and plays with a calm, steady demeanor. Shows up as a better athlete on the field than he tests in combine settings. Does not overwhelm from a stature standpoint and is slightly shorter than ideal for a top interior prospect, but compensates with technique, consistency, and competitive toughness. Well-rounded game, positional versatility, and dominant film make him one of the safest offensive line prospects in the 2027 cycle.”

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