5-star TE Gilbert commits to LSU over Alabama
Five-star tight end Arik Gilbert announced his commitment to LSU on Wednesday.
It was a surprising decision from the No. 12 overall recruit on the ESPN 300, as he was widely expected to pick Alabama. Gilbert was also considering Georgia, Clemson, and Texas A&M.
5-star Marietta TE and one of the most highly sought after recruits in the country Arik Gilbert chooses @LSU over Texas A&M, Bama, Clemson and Georgia. “Coach O has a good thing going there.” #LSU #GeauxTigers @arik_gilbert pic.twitter.com/IpgGLANtsw
— Maria Martin (@Ria_Martin) October 23, 2019
The 6-foot-6, 255-pounder is the top tight end in the 2020 class.
Gilbert said he's "completely done" with the recruiting process after choosing the Tigers, according to 247Sports' Shea Dixon.
"Honestly, it's always been one of my top choices with (head coach Ed Orgeron) there and the program he runs," Gilbert said. "It just, it seems like it really fits me. 'One Team, One Heartbeat,' and I'm the same way. It's all about team and values.
"Also, with the new offense they are running with (passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach Joe Brady) down there, that really interested me a lot. They were already one of my top teams, but that put them over the top."
5-star TE Arik Gilbert shocks everyone by picking LSU over Alabama and Georgia. Coverage coming @TigerDetails pic.twitter.com/H1Wiqcrnqg
— Woody Wommack (@RivalsWoody) October 23, 2019
Gilbert played at Marietta High School in Georgia, racking up 88 catches for 1,210 yards and 14 touchdowns in his final season.