LSU football corner DJ Pickett reveals decision on LSU future

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

LSU football five-star cornerback DJ Pickett will return to the Tigers in 2026, announced by LSU in a social media post on Thursday.

Pickett was LSU's top-ranked recruit in 2025 and hit the ground running as a true freshman. Pickett was an immediate impact player for defensive coordinator Blake Baker. And with Baker returning, along with secondary coach Corey Raymond, Pickett is opting to stay in Baton Rouge as new head coach Lane Kiffin takes over the program.

Per PFF, Pickett's coverage grade was 77.6, ranking 10th among all SEC cornerbacks. Pickett picked off three passes, made 13 stops, and even recorded two sacks. Pickett's combination of size and speed is rare for a cornerback. With Mansoor Delane off to the NFL, Pickett will be expected to step into LSU's CB1 role and carry a shutdown presence on the outside.

After it was clear Baker and Raymond were returning to LSU, there was little doubt that Pickett would be back too. LSU's announcement offered confirmation.

Pickett will command a significant dollar from LSU, but keeping the Tigers' most talented players was a priority for Kiffin and LSU GM Billy Glasscock.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Five-star defender confirms LSU football return for 2026 season

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos