Elijah Barnes, a 5-star linebacker from Skyline High School in Dallas, Texas, has officially announced his commitment to the LSU Tigers. Standing at 6’1.5″ and weighing 220 pounds, Barnes is widely regarded as one of the top defensive recruits in the 2025 class. His impressive high school career, defined by his speed, strength, and ability to read plays, drew offers from major college football programs across the country. Ultimately, Barnes chose LSU, where he sees a clear path to develop his talents under Coach Brian Kelly and contribute to the Tigers’ defensive lineup.
Barnes’ commitment comes as a crucial addition to LSU’s 2025 recruiting class, which is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the nation. Known for his versatility, Barnes can play both inside and outside linebacker positions, making him a valuable asset for LSU’s defensive strategy. Throughout his high school career at Skyline, he demonstrated an elite combination of tackling, agility, and leadership, which earned him the 5-star ranking and national attention.
His recruitment was a battle between some of the biggest programs in college football. Alabama, Texas, and Oklahoma were heavily involved, each making compelling cases for Barnes to join their ranks. However, LSU’s reputation for producing top-tier defensive talent and the vision laid out by their coaching staff convinced Barnes that Baton Rouge was the right destination. Barnes’ commitment represents another victory for LSU in its quest to maintain dominance in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).
At LSU, Barnes is expected to make an immediate impact. His size and instincts as a linebacker will allow him to contribute in stopping both the run and pass, crucial for an SEC defense. The LSU coaching staff has high expectations for his ability to develop into a leader on the field, similar to other star linebackers who have emerged from the program. His commitment also signals a continued focus on defense for LSU’s recruiting efforts, as the Tigers aim to build a well-rounded, championship-contending team.
Barnes’ decision marks the culmination of a long recruitment process, where he evaluated the development opportunities, facilities, and the chance to compete at the highest level. LSU’s recent success in both recruiting and on-field performance under Coach Kelly played a significant role in tipping the scales in favor of the Tigers. With Barnes in the fold, LSU has added a cornerstone to its defensive future, positioning the team to remain a force in both the SEC and national title discussions for years to come.
As Barnes prepares to finish his high school career at Skyline, the excitement surrounding his future at LSU continues to build. His decision is not only a testament to his abilities as a top linebacker but also to LSU’s recruiting prowess, ensuring that the Tigers remain competitive in the ever-intense battle for top talent in college football.