Jalen Brown, Florida 5-star wide receiver, commits to LSU Tigers

The LSU Tigers have been arguably the nation's hottest college football program in the month of July, landing six commitments before Friday, highlighted by Minnesota four-star edge-rusher Jaxon Howard and Maryland four-star defensive lineman Dashawn Womack. 

The seventh pledge was likely the biggest of that streak - and it came Friday afternoon when Gulliver Prep (Florida) five-star wide receiver Jalen Brown announced his commitment to Brian Kelly's program over fellow finalists Florida State, Miami, Michigan and Texas.

The 6-foot-1, 170-pound pass-catcher is rated the nation's No. 29 overall prospect and No. 4 wide receiver, carrying a composite five-star ranking. 

Brown projects as a blazing-fast speedster who is likely to take the top off the defense, according to 247Sports:

"A true deep threat that uses elite foot speed to take the top off a defense. Has not only improved track times over the years, but has also evolved as a football player. At his best when he’s asked to just get deep as he has almost mastered the fly/go route. Also has beaten his fair share of cornerbacks and safeties on post/corner routes. Tracks the ball to a high degree once it's in the air and can make a grab over his shoulder. Has also gotten better and better at taking on defenders and making contested catches. Might stretch the field better than most, but must get better at working the short to intermediate numbers on the route tree and needs to learn how to extend plays after the catch, especially after contact. Will also likely need to add some mass if he’s ever going to be an effective blocker at the Power 5 level. However, the body should eventually undergo some type of physical transformation once lifting/eating in college, and additional play strength will only help him become more of a complete wideout. Will probably need a year or two before he’s ready to make an impact on Saturdays, but should be viewed as a vertical playmaker that quarterbacks are going to want to target whenever it’s time to take a shot. Could get some burn in the slot, but looks like more of a natural on the outside in a modern pro-style attack. First-class speed (10.6 in the 100-meter dash and 21.1 in the 200-meter) is what NFL scouts covet these days." 

As a junior, Brown hauled in 56 receptions for 1,033 yards and 11 touchdowns. 

Junior season highlights