Top 100 prospect Damien Shanklin commits to LSU: "I really love everything about it."
Indianapolis (Ind.) Warren Central On300 edge rusher Damien Shanklin will play his college football at LSU.
He announced his commitment to head coach Brian Kelly and the Tigers early Friday evening on the On3 Recruits YouTube page. Shanklin is the 14th member of the 2025 class.
The 6-foot-5, 245-pound Shanklin also strongly considered Alabama and Ohio State. Edge rushers coach Kevin Peoples was the lead recruiter in courting Shanklin to Baton Rouge.
“Just felt comfortable talking to Coach Peoples and building that bond,” Shanklin said. “And felt like I was home when I was there as well.”
The four-star Shanklin took two visits to LSU. He was there for the LSU Spring Game in April and returned for his official in June.
“I just feel like Coach Peoples can build me into one of those guys like Darius Robinson and get me to the next level and pursue my dreams.
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“I really love everything about it.”
LSU adds to their top five recruiting class
The On3 Industry ranks Shanklin as the No. 1 prospect in the Hoosier State, the No. 12 edge rusher in the country and the No. 86 prospect overall. He adds to a Tigers class ranked No. 5 nationally prior to his commitment.
“Seeing Bryce Underwood, Harlem Berry and a couple other guys tells you a lot,” Shanklin said. “the No. 1 quarterback and No. 1 running back. I know I’m not the No. 1 edge but to me I am. I feel like this recruiting class is going to be great playing for Coach Brian Kelly.
“I think it’s going to be amazing.”
Coach’s take on Shanklin
As a junior Shanklin had 66 tackles including 17 stops for los and three sacks.
“His ability to get to the ball,” Warren Central head coach Mike Kirschner said when asked about what stands out about Shanklin’s game. “He is relentless in his pursuit. He’s a ball hawk. He’s around it. He wants to be around it. That’s something inside some kids. He’s a ball hawk.”
LSU took the lead for Shanklin following his visit in April.
“He really believes that’s where he fits with the team and the kids and the culture,” Kirschner said.