LSU Tigers get last laugh over multiple SEC programs with latest big-time commitment for 2026 recruiting class

BREAKING: #LSU has landed a commitment from the No. 4 rated EDGE in America: Trenton Henderson. The 6’4, 225-pound Sunshine State prospect pledges to the Tigers over Florida and Texas. -- Zack Nagy

LSU dominated the transfer portal this offseason, and they're also putting together quite the high school class for 2026. Henderson joins wide receiver Tristen Keys as elite commitments in recent weeks for the Tigers. Keys is the highest-rated commitment for LSU so far in 2026.

One notable aspect to this defensive commitment for LSU? The Tigers stole him right out of Florida's backyard. They won the battle for the Florida prospect over the Gators, and it is certainly possible that NIL played a notable role.  

The Tigers reportedly offered a stronger NIL package than the Gators, and it's most likely the reason why he ended up in Baton Rouge over Gainesville. -- Tyler Forness

A versatile edge rusher capable of playing multiple positions, Henderson emerged among the nation's top defensive prospects at Florida's Pensacola High School. He recorded 39 tackles with four sacks as a sophomore in 2023 before making a significant leap in his junior season last fall, closing the 2024 campaign with 50 tackles, 10 sacks and 20 quarterback hurries. If Henderson signs later this year, he'll mark the Tigers' highest-ranked defensive end addition since pass rusher Da'Shawn Womack arrived as the nation's 49th-ranked recruit in 2023. -- ESPN

Regardless, the Tigers are putting together quite the group on the defensive side of the ball early on when it comes to 2026. Henderson is the ninth ESPN 300 recruit to join LSU's class. It is clear that Brian Kelly hasn't overlooked the aspect of HS recruiting even in a time where the portal is incredibly valued across the country.