BREAKING: Ohio State 5-Star TE Zak Herbstreit Stuns College Football World with Shocking Flip to LSU Tigers
In a seismic twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, highly-touted five-star tight end Zak Herbstreit has officially flipped his commitment from Ohio State to LSU, stunning Buckeye Nation and thrilling Tiger fans. Herbstreit, the son of ESPN analyst and former Ohio State quarterback Kirk Herbstreit, had long been considered a lock for the Buckeyes—but in a move few saw coming, he announced late Tuesday night via social media that he would be taking his talents to Baton Rouge.
“I want to thank Ohio State for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to represent my home,” Zak posted on X (formerly Twitter). “But after a lot of prayer and deep conversations with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to decommit from Ohio State and commit to Louisiana State University. Geaux Tigers!”
This decision marks one of the most dramatic recruiting flips of the 2025 class and comes at a critical time as teams look to solidify their rosters before summer workouts begin. Herbstreit, a 6-foot-5, 240-pound tight end ranked among the top five in the nation at his position, brings a unique blend of size, speed, and elite football IQ—traits that made him a cornerstone of Ohio State’s 2025 plans.
Analysts are already calling this one of the biggest recruiting coups of the cycle. LSU head coach Brian Kelly, known for developing top-tier tight ends, personally recruited Herbstreit during a quiet visit to Columbus earlier this month. Insiders now believe that Kelly’s pro-style offense and tight end-friendly schemes played a significant role in the reversal.
“This is a monumental win for LSU,” said 247Sports recruiting analyst Clint Wright. “Landing a player like Zak not only boosts their offense but also sends a message across the SEC that LSU is not just battling with the Alabamas and Georgias—they’re poaching talent from the Big Ten’s elite.”
For Ohio State, the loss is a major blow. Herbstreit was not just a top recruit—he was a symbolic figure in the Buckeyes’ 2025 class. As the son of one of the program’s most recognizable alumni, many believed Zak would continue the family legacy in scarlet and gray. But in today’s recruiting world, where NIL deals, scheme fit, and development track records often outweigh legacy ties, nothing is guaranteed.
Social media erupted in the hours following the announcement. Buckeyes fans expressed shock and disappointment, while LSU faithful hailed Herbstreit as a game-changer. Kirk Herbstreit, who had previously remained quiet about his son’s recruitment, issued a short but supportive statement: “As a dad, I fully support Zak’s decision. He’s earned the right to choose his own path.”
With this move, LSU’s 2025 recruiting class jumps several spots in national rankings, and Herbstreit immediately becomes a centerpiece of their offensive future. As college football continues to evolve, so do the decisions of its brightest young stars—and Zak Herbstreit’s flip will be remembered as one of the most unexpected moves in recent memory.
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