Rivals recruiting insider Steve Wiltfong predicts LSU football will lose out on a priority five-star recruit. On Saturday, Wiltfong predicted five-star wideout Easton Royal will commit to Florida, with the Gators beating out LSU and Texas.

Royal is verbally committed to Texas, but it's been no secret that Royal's recruitment was far from over. LSU made a significant push, and for the last several months, Lane Kiffin and the Tigers were considered the favorite. Now, it appears Florida has the momentum for Royal's services.

Per Rivals Industry Rankings, Royal is the No. 5-ranked recruit in the 2027 class. Royal is the No. 1-ranked receiver and top recruit in Louisiana. LSU doesn't want to lose a five-star Louisiana wide receiver to an SEC rival, but it may be headed in that direction.

FONG BOMB: Rivals' @SWiltfong_ has logged an expert prediction for Florida to flip Texas Five-Star Plus+ WR commit Easton Royal🐊
Read: https://t.co/LR4FylkMlxpic.twitter.com/BDob0SYjno

— Rivals (@Rivals) October 10, 2026

Royal committed to Texas before LSU hired Lane Kiffin, but since taking over as head coach, Kiffin and staff have made Royal a priority. Signing day remains months away, so this one may not be over yet, but if Royal committs to Florida, it's hard to see him ending up at LSU and flipping for a second time.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU football falling behind Florida in race for five-star Easton Royal

Source: Yahoo Sports