ESPN names SEC team with the nation’s best incoming class of transfers, recruits
By David Wasson
Published:
The 2026 college football season is still months away, but programs across the country are beginning their spring workouts now – which means jumbo transfer portal classes are acclimating themselves to new surroundings from Corvallis to Coral Gable and all points in between.
ESPN analysts Craig Haubert and Billy Tucker ranked their top 25 groups of newcomers – recruits and transfers combined – based on who could see the most impactful immediate returns for 2026. And the top program on the list?
Coach Lane Kiffin’s LSU Tigers.
Where does LSU stand in the Kalshi prediction market among 2026 SEC Championship contenders? Take a look!
Haubert and Tucker pointed to the signing of prep standout defensive tackle Lamar Taylor as proof of Kiffin’s traditional recruiting bona fides. The analysis also mentioned receiver Jabari Mack’s potential to make an immediate impact with the Tigers in 2026 and offensive tackle Brysten Martinez.
LSU also went heavy in the transfer portal, of course, landing several plug-and-play standouts like former 5-star offensive tackle Jordan Seaton (Colorado) and quarterback Sam Leavitt (Arizona State).
Seaton allowed just 5 sacks in 22 career starts with the Buffaloes and should lock down left tackle in Baton Rouge. Leavitt was Kiffin’s first big portal victory, arriving from the Sun Devils having piled up 4,652 passing yards and 36 touchdowns against 11 interceptions.
An APSE national award-winning writer and editor, David Wasson has almost four decades of experience in the print journalism business in Florida and Alabama. His work has also appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times and several national magazines and websites. His Twitter handle: @JustDWasson.
