Easton Royal, who is the top-ranked receiver for the Class of 2027, verbally committed to the Texas Longhorns in November 2025, but since he hasn't signed any official paperwork, he's still up for grabs. Royal's been a popular five-star recruit in the SEC specifically as LSU and Florida have been trying hard to secure the receiver. Since taking over the Tigers, coach Lane Kiffin has made signing Royal for next season one of his priorities.
His push has led college football fans to believe LSU would convince Royal to switch his commitment. However, Rivals recruiting insider Steve Wiltfong believes LSU won't be the school to sign Royal. Instead, Wiltfong thinks Florida will win out on the competition.
It's important to note this is solely a prediction made by Wiltfong, as Royal hasn't made any declarations yet. Royal visited Florida when the Gators beat Ole Miss 52–28 on Sept. 26. It was a great game for Royal to watch up close if the Gators want to try and win him over, especially since Florida then lost their next two matchups.
Coincidentally, Florida will face No. 1 Texas next weekend to try and end their losing streak. The receiver landing with Florida would be pouring salt on Kiffin's wound as the Gators are one of the Tigers' biggest SEC rivals. It wouldn't be fun for Kiffin and the Tigers to have to face Royal and the Gators next season instead of playing with him.
Royal, a senior at Brother Martin in New Orleans, would be the first five-star wide receiver recruit of his class at both LSU and Florida, depending where he ends up, if he still chooses to de-commit from Texas.
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