The season has been full of lows for the Tigers. As if Brian Kelly’s firing and LSU’s poor run in the SEC weren’t enough, another setback has hit the program. In an IG post, transfer portal reporter Hayes Fawcett delivered more bad news for LSU: four-star defensive lineman DeAnthony Lafayette has decommitted from the program.

DeAnthony Lafayette had been committed to the Tigers since July, choosing LSU over major programs like the Oklahoma Sooners, Miami Hurricanes, and Florida State. This news of decommitment comes as a blow to the LSU faithful, as the No. 36 EDGE, according to the 247Sports Composite, visited another program this past Saturday.

The four-star EDGE prospect showed his presence at Hard Rock Stadium in Week 11, watching the Miami Hurricanes take on Syracuse. After the game, Lafayette told Fawcett that he decided to decommit from LSU to keep his options open. With over 30 offers currently on the table, the question now is: what led to his sudden change of heart?

Being an Orlando, Florida native and playing closer to home could be a reason. But previously, he was stoked and very vocal about joining LSU after his June visit. “I’m going to LSU! Coach Peoples showed love since they offered me, and his coaching style is a style I would love to be coached by.” Lafayette told Rivals. “LSU felt more like home for me. Baton Rouge — from the energy, the people, and the love for LSU football — hit different. From the moment I stepped on campus, it felt like home.”

But LSU’s form this season and Brian Kelly’s firing may have led Lafayette to think otherwise. The Tigers have found it hard to keep their foot on the gas pedal this season. They have a 5-4 overall record and a 2-4 SEC record, which shows how poorly they have performed all season. Adding Brian Kelly’s firing to this list makes sense of why DeAnthony Lafayette decided to explore his options.

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Why was LSU pushing for DeAnthony Lafayette in the first place?

DeAnthony Lafayette was a part of Brian Kelly’s 2026 roster-strengthening plans. His stats for Lake Nona High School were impressive. In the 2024 season, Lafayette finished his junior season by racking up 73 total tackles in 11 games, averaging around 6.6 tackles per game. He also recorded 17.5 sacks and 40 quarterback hurries, making him a strong defensive threat.

Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 230 pounds, he was an ideal target for powerhouses like LSU, Oklahoma, and the Miami Hurricanes. With Brian Kelly out of the picture and LSU’s downfall, Lafayette’s chances of joining the Tigers ended. This will be great news for HC Mario Cristobal, who will be looking to bolster his team for the 2026 season.

With the 2025 season coming to a close, Cristobal would be looking for a chance at the playoffs. As of now, the Hurricanes are 7th in the ACC. Their last three games are against NC State and two ACC table-toppers, Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh. He will look to ensure that his side does not falter in those games as they did against SMU.

As for DeAnthony Lafayette, he’ll be keeping a close eye on how things unfold with his next destination.