LSU trending up with top-100 EDGE prospect Damien Shanklin

LSU has gone heavy on the offensive side of the ball early in the 2025 class, with eight of the Tigers’ 11 commitments expected to play there at the next level.

And while they still have some major targets on the board at receiver and offensive line, they’re putting a big emphasis on defensive targets this summer.

Few are higher on their list than Indianapolis (Ind.) Warren Central four-star EDGE Damien Shanklin.

The 6-foot-4, 215-pounder was in Baton Rouge over the weekend for his official visit, one which appears to have checked all the boxes for him.

“It was amazing,” Shanklin told On3’s Steve Wiltfong. “I was able to sit down and chill with the staff and players, and I also feel very bought in there. Literally talked to the whole staff this weekend because the bond is there and also enjoyed my time with the recruits. But everything was great about the visit. Nothing but positive energy.”

On Monday, Wiltfong logged an expert pick in the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM) in favor of the Tigers. And he was followed by LSU insider Billy Embody of TheBengalTiger.com.

Key visits still on the schedule for Shanklin

While Notre Dame still holds a slight advantage from earlier picks, according to the RPM, it’s Brian Kelly and Co. who have the momentum at their backs.

Shanklin moved LSU into his top schools and added his official visit last month. The Tigers also have early playing time for him available.

Later this month, Shanklin is expected to take visits to Ohio State on June 7, Tennessee on June 14 and Alabama on June 21.

The On3 Industry Ranking — a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting services — tabs Shanklin as the No. 1 prospect in the Hoosier State, the No. 12 edge in the country and No. 85 prospect overall.