Mizzou is making waves on the recruiting front, snagging its second Class of 2027 commit in just a week. The latest addition? Three-star offensive lineman Lual Aleu, who promises to bolster protection for quarterback commit Braylen Warren and any future QB donning the black and gold.
The announcement came on Monday night, a mere three days after 2027 safety Jabarri Lofton made his decision public. Initially reported by Rivals and later confirmed by Aleu himself, this commitment is turning heads.
Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, Aleu is the highest-ranked recruit Mizzou has landed so far, according to 247Sports. He's the 13th-ranked player in Ohio and stands 40th in his position as an offensive tackle. At Winton Woods High School, Aleu has been a key player, contributing to three consecutive seasons with over eight wins, including a standout 10-2 record last year.
Watching Aleu's film, his impressive size and ability to lock onto targets and prevent them from breaking through are evident. Standing at 6'5" and weighing 295 pounds, if he can bring his high school prowess to Mizzou, he could become a cornerstone of their offensive line. Plus, he has another year to hone his skills in high school.
Aleu, alongside Warren and Lofton, forms the early core of Mizzou Football’s Class of 2027. As recruiting season heats up, expect more names to join the roster before summer.
Where He Fits
Aleu is primarily listed as an offensive tackle and has spent significant time playing on the outside. With Mizzou's history of shifting players around, and with Cayden Green and Josh Atkins nearing the end of their eligibility, Aleu might find a spot opening up at tackle in the coming years. Regardless, his size and strength make him a versatile asset on the line.
When He Plays
Given the demands of the position, Aleu might need a year or two before seeing game action for the Tigers. Many of this season’s freshmen are expected to redshirt, and Aleu might follow suit. Transitioning from high school to college football on the offensive line is no small feat, and patience could be key to his development.