Lane Kiffin stands proud of securing the leading transfer portal class in college football for the 2026 recruiting cycle. This achievement, he explains, is a direct result of LSU’s robust resources and strategic alignment, which have successfully attracted numerous top players.

The Tigers successfully acquired three out of the top five players from the transfer portal, demonstrating aggressive recruitment and financial investment that was unparalleled this season. Key players in this recruiting frenzy include:

• Sam Leavitt (No. 1 quarterback from Arizona State)
• Jordan Seaton (No. 1 offensive tackle from Colorado)
• Princewill Umanmielen (No. 1 edge rusher from Ole Miss)
  Their impressive haul contributed to a total of 40 transfers.

“I don’t know. I just know how I do things,” Kiffin mentioned regarding his relentless mindset about recruiting when top players come to the portal. He expressed, “There’s a good and bad to it… I’m extremely competitive, and I don’t really take ’no’ for an answer. That drives my competitiveness when a recruit declines. I view that as my responsibility at LSU."

Conversing on social media strategies, Kiffin remarked: “Everything I do is for the place of where I coach at, that school, and those fans. This aspect of my job might not make me popular with others.”

In pursuit of Leavitt, Kiffin went the extra mile, literally chasing him in Knoxville Airport following Leavitt’s visit to LSU which did not conclude with a commitment.

Kiffin emphasizes, “I am here to recruit the best players, which sometimes entails unexpected travel arrangements. That work ethic aligns well with the mentality of the Louisiana community.”

Finally, Kiffin attributed LSU’s intrinsic prestige as a significant factor in making early recruiting strides despite the lack of a full coaching staff during December before his arrival. He brought his essential personnel, Billy Glasscock and Mike Williams, who were pivotal in this successful recruiting class.