Just when we thought the coaching carousel couldn't get any crazier, LSU found a way to add to the craziness!
Sources: LSU coach Brian Kelly was informed of the intention to dismiss him earlier today. The school is expected to inform the team of this development tonight. Talks about the terms of his departure are expected to continue. pic.twitter.com/gaGeTlxEDg
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) October 27, 2025
Kelly was dismissed from his role as the head coach of the LSU Tigers, a role he held for three and a half seasons. This decision comes after the Tigers started the 2025 season with a 5-3 record, including 2-3 in SEC play.
Of course, coaches being fired opens up opportunities on the recruiting trail, both via high school commits and potential transfer portal targets down the road. As of today, LSU had 16 commitments from members of the Class of 2026, a group that ranks as the 11th-best recruiting class in 247Sports' team rankings.
If you're Bill Belichick and the UNC football program, there are a handful of prospects who should catch your eye. While the hope is that they have already been in communication with some of these players, here are three that North Carolina should put the full-court press on to flip their commitment.
Lamar Brown
Ranked as the No. 1 player in the Class of 2026 (by 247Sports Composite), Lamar Brown is a physical presence and an absolute beast in the trenches.
Before committing to LSU in July, North Carolina extended an offer his way at the end of February. The current regime has shown their strong interest in him, as that interest could definitely rekindle with the latest head coaching news in Baton Rouge.
The Tar Heels won't be alone in its pursuit of Brown, but it should do whatever it takes to bring him to Chapel Hill. This dude has the potential to be a cornerstone along the offensive line for years to come and will be playing on Sundays in just a few years.
Deuce Gerard
A four-star defensive lineman from Suwanee, Georgia, Gerard would be a major addition for the UNC football program's defensive line unit, one that will once again have a new look next season.
Sure, the old regime is the one who extended an offer his way, but that shouldn't stop the current staff from trying to jump back into the mix. Who knows: the presence of Belichick might end up being an intriguing factor for Gerard to consider when looking for a potential future home.
Havon Finney
Another four-star talent, Havon Finney is regarded as a top-10 ranked cornerback among the Class of 2026.
Finney is another player who the current staff extended an offer to near the start of the new year, but his April commitment to the Tigers made it seem like they jumped into the mix just a bit late. Now, if he elects to re-evaluate his options, the Tar Heels should be running to the phones to get in contact with him, giving him a real opportunity to see all the possibilities that Chapel Hill has to offer to him.