The competition for top prospects in the 2026 recruiting class is intensifying, with Texas, LSU, and Ohio State emerging as the frontrunners in the race to land standout safety Blaine Bradford from Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Bradford, a four-star recruit, is ranked No. 16 overall by On3 and is the second-ranked player in Louisiana.
According to On3’s Chad Simmons, Bradford plans to announce his commitment before July. The 6-foot-1, 207-pound safety has scheduled official visits to Texas, Ohio State, and LSU in June.
A scouting report from Gabe Brooks of 247Sports describes Bradford as a well-built safety with the versatility to play across the defensive backfield. At a verified 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he has the potential to add more size if a transition to off-ball linebacker is in his future.
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Bradford is a fast-reacting defender who quickly diagnoses plays and aggressively pursues the ball carrier. He breaks down well before tackling and delivers powerful hits, using his speed and strength to shed blocks and make plays.
According to On3, LSU is the heavy favorite to land Bradford, with a 93.9% probability of his commitment. The Tigers currently boast the No. 4 recruiting class for 2026, having already secured three top-60 prospects: defensive lineman Richard Anderson (ranked 40th), safety Aiden Hall (42nd), and offensive tackle Brysten Martinez (59th).
Last year, LSU finished with the No. 9 recruiting class.
