Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers are hoping to flip 2027 five-star wide receiver Easton Royal from the Texas Longhorns.

Royal, 5-foot-11/214 pounds from New Orleans, LA, is rated in 247Sports’ composite rankings as the No. 1 wide receiver in the nation and the No. 6 overall player in the 2027 recruiting class. He’s been committed to Texas since November 29, 2025.

The Florida Gators have also been in the mix for Royal over the last couple of months, but it appears that this battle is down to LSU and Texas.

“They made a very big, significant jump,” said Royal to Rivals after a recent official visit to LSU. “They’re in a very good spot. They’re very close to Texas now after this weekend.”

“They continue to show me everything I need is here,” added Royal. “I can go be great anywhere else, but why not do the same thing at home … in front of your hometown and close to the people you love. They’re showing me the whole state is behind me.”

According to On3’s Sam Spiegelman, it’s believed that Royal is in “decision mode” right now, and that he’ll make a final decision sometime in July.

“This race has grown significantly tighter between Texas and LSU into July,” wrote Spiegelman. “Sources close to Royal believe the five-star prospect is in ‘decision mode’ right now. A final call on his future plans is expected sometime this month.”

Arch Manning is trying to help Texas hold on to Easton Royal

Some view LSU as the favorite to win this battle due to the fact that Royal is from Louisiana.

Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, however, is doing his part to help Texas hang on to the talented wide receiver.

Manning revealed at the Manning Passing Academy last month that he recently had lunch with Royal in Austin.

“I had lunch with him last week in Austin,” said Manning. “He’s a really good kid. Obviously, I just told him that recruiting can be a lot, but I can be a resource for you and help you out any way I can. I think he’s a really good player, and he’s a really good guy, so I’m excited for his senior year, and what he does next.”

LSU fans shouldn’t have to wait much longer to see if Kiffin and the Tigers can beat out Arch and the Longhorns for the coveted five-star recruit.