Ohio State Commit Jerquaden Guilford Draws Late Push from LSU Ahead of Early Signing Period
Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class got a major boost back in July when Jerquaden Guilford, the top-ranked prospect in Indiana, committed to the Buckeyes. The four-star wide receiver out of Fort Wayne Northrop made his decision public after weighing offers from heavy hitters like Ole Miss, Michigan, and Indiana. But as the Early Signing Period approaches, LSU is making a late, aggressive move to try and flip the dynamic pass-catcher.
Here’s where things get interesting: Lane Kiffin, who had been recruiting Guilford at Ole Miss, made the jump to LSU on Sunday. And he didn’t come alone-Kiffin brought wide receivers coach George McDonald with him to Baton Rouge.
That’s a key connection. McDonald had already built a relationship with Guilford during his time in Oxford, and now LSU is banking on that bond to make a last-minute impression.
On Monday morning, LSU extended a formal offer to Guilford, signaling their intent to make a serious run at the Buckeye commit. With the Early Signing Period set to open Wednesday, the Tigers are hoping this late push can shake things up in what’s already been a high-stakes recruitment.
Make no mistake-Guilford has been solidly committed to Ohio State throughout the fall. But LSU’s pitch comes with new energy, and the timing couldn’t be more strategic. The Tigers are actively targeting multiple top-tier prospects in the 2026 cycle, and Guilford has quickly become a name to watch.
So what makes Guilford such a hot commodity? According to his trainer, Dre Muhammad of Traction Athletic Performance, it’s the total package-talent, work ethic, and a growing maturity that separates him from the pack.
“Jerquaden shares similarities with elite prospects like Mylan Graham,” Muhammad said, referencing the current Ohio State standout. “He’s got that same drive to master his craft and elevate his game. He thrives on competition and consistently steps up when the lights are brightest.”
Physically, Guilford checks every box. He stands between 6-foot-2 and 6-foot-3, runs a verified low 4.5 in the 40-yard dash, and weighs in at 190 pounds-with room to add another 10 as he continues to develop.
He’s a long-strider with deceptive speed, capable of covering ground in a hurry. And he’s not just a finesse guy-he’s physical, willing to block, and tough to bring down after the catch.
That combination of size, speed, and physicality makes him a matchup nightmare on the outside. But what really sets him apart, according to Muhammad, is how he’s embracing the mental side of the game.
LSU offers Rivals300 WR Jerquaden Guilford an Ohio State commit who nearly gave Lane Kiffin a verbal at Ole Miss. https://t.co/LckIaFZlQz https://t.co/T8Hj9esfMr
— Steve Wiltfong (@SWiltfong_) December 1, 2025
“He’s learning from those who came before him,” Muhammad said. “He’s developing a professional mindset in how he prepares and approaches every aspect of his game.”
Guilford has already proven himself against elite competition on the 7-on-7 circuit and during summer showcases, and he’s widely viewed as one of the top 15 receivers in the 2026 class. That’s not just hype-it’s a reputation he’s earned by consistently showing up and showing out.
Now, with LSU making a late charge, Guilford’s recruitment is getting one last twist before the ink dries. Ohio State still holds the commitment, but the Tigers are hoping a familiar face in McDonald and a fresh opportunity under Kiffin can turn the tide.
As the Early Signing Period looms, this recruitment just became one of the most intriguing storylines to watch.