The recruiting world saw a seismic shift this weekend when 4-star offensive lineman Devin Harper announced his decommitment from LSU and subsequent flip to Ole Miss. Harper, one of the most sought-after linemen in the class of 2025, made the revelation via social media, sending shockwaves through the SEC recruiting landscape. His decision, accompanied by the declaration that he is now “100% locked” with the Rebels, represents a significant win for Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin and his staff.
Devin Harper, a 6’6”, 310-pound offensive tackle from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is ranked among the top 10 offensive linemen in the 2025 recruiting class. Known for his blend of power and athleticism, Harper has been a force on the gridiron, dominating opposing defensive lines with his quick feet, strong hands, and ability to create running lanes.
Harper’s high school tape has drawn comparisons to some of the best linemen in the NFL, and his skill set positions him as a potential Day 1 starter at the collegiate level. As a homegrown talent, LSU had long been considered the favorite in his recruitment, making his flip to Ole Miss even more surprising.
For months, Harper appeared to be solid in his commitment to LSU. The Tigers’ coaching staff, led by head coach Brian Kelly and offensive line coach Brad Davis, prioritized Harper as a cornerstone of their 2025 recruiting class. However, recent visits to other programs, including Ole Miss, began to shift the narrative.
“I’ve been thinking about this for a while,” Harper explained in a statement. “I have a lot of love for LSU and what they’ve done for me, but after visiting Ole Miss and getting to know their coaches, players, and the program, I realized it’s the best fit for me. It feels like home.”
Harper’s decision to flip to Ole Miss highlights the growing appeal of Lane Kiffin’s program. Known for his offensive innovation and player development, Kiffin has built a reputation as a coach who can maximize his players’ potential.
“Ole Miss showed me a vision for my future,” Harper said. “Coach Kiffin and Coach [Jake] Thornton believe in me, not just as a player but as a person. They showed me how I can grow both on and off the field, and that really stood out to me.”
The Rebels’ focus on family atmosphere and immediate opportunities for impact also played a significant role. Harper cited the close-knit culture at Ole Miss as a key factor in his decision.
Landing Harper is a massive win for Ole Miss, both on and off the field. As the Rebels continue to build a competitive roster in the SEC, securing commitments from elite linemen like Harper is crucial. Offensive line depth has been a priority for Kiffin’s staff, and Harper’s addition addresses that need in a big way.
Moreover, Harper’s commitment could create momentum for Ole Miss in the 2025 class. Securing a player of his caliber sends a message to other top recruits that the Rebels are serious contenders in the SEC arms race.
For LSU, Harper’s decommitment is a significant blow. The Tigers have enjoyed success recruiting in-state talent under Brian Kelly, but losing a player of Harper’s stature to a conference rival underscores the challenges of competing in the SEC’s hyper-competitive recruiting environment.
Harper’s flip will undoubtedly prompt LSU’s staff to reassess their approach, particularly in securing commitments from other key targets in the 2025 class.
As Harper moves forward with his commitment to Ole Miss, he joins a Rebels program eager to compete at the highest level. The next step will be translating his potential into production on the field, and all signs point to Harper being ready for the challenge.
For Ole Miss fans, Harper’s declaration of being “100% locked” is a reason to celebrate. His decision to flip from LSU is not just a victory in recruiting but a statement about the program’s growing stature under Lane Kiffin.
As the 2025 recruiting cycle progresses, Harper’s commitment will likely be remembered as a pivotal moment for the Rebels—a moment when they secured a cornerstone player who could help shape the future of Ole Miss football.