JaReylan McCoy, a standout defensive end from Tupelo, Mississippi, is gaining major attention following his stellar MVP performance at the Under Armour Next Camp.
Ranked as the No. 2 defensive end in the nation and Mississippi’s top prospect, McCoy is now a prime target in the 2026 recruiting class.
JaReylan McCoy’s Recruitment Intensifies After MVP Showing at UA Next Camp
Earlier this year, McCoy committed to LSU but recently withdrew his pledge, opting to reassess his options. With offers already in hand from Arkansas and fresh off a visit to Oregon two days ago, McCoy’s recruitment is rapidly intensifying.
As an Under Armour All-American during his junior season, McCoy’s exceptional talent continues to draw interest from top programs seeking his commitment.
Standing 6’7″ and weighing 250 pounds, McCoy’s rare blend of size and agility has drawn comparisons to some of the nation’s top defensive ends. The standout from Tupelo, Mississippi, is currently ranked No. 124 overall in the 2026 recruiting class by the On3 Industry Ranking. Additionally, he holds the No. 11 spot among defensive linemen and is recognized as Mississippi’s No. 1 overall prospect.
Following his MVP performance at the Under Armour Next Camp, McCoy’s recruitment has escalated. His decision will hinge largely on personal connections.
“Relationships and the people I am around is what I’m looking for,” McCoy told On3. “I want to be around great people. Building close relationships is key in my decision.”
McCoy recently revealed that Florida, Auburn, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, and LSU are the five programs set to receive official visits. His visit schedule includes Auburn on May 16, Ole Miss on June 6, and LSU on June 20. Trips to Texas A&M and Florida are also planned, though the exact dates are yet to be confirmed.
Florida has emerged as a strong contender due to their persistent communication.
“I can’t lie: I’ll give them top two because they have been calling and texting me every day, FaceTiming me, and showing me stuff from what they’re doing during the offseason,” said McCoy. “They are a leader with the five schools I have for summer visits. They’re sitting pretty good for where they are standing at right now.”
Despite reopening his recruitment, McCoy has kept LSU in consideration.
KEEP READING: 2025 Way-Too-Early College Football Top 25 Power Rankings
“I just need to think about things a little more. LSU is a great school, and I love coach Peoples, so LSU is still in the mix, but I just wanted to open things back up.”
McCoy’s recent stats reflect his talent, finishing his 2023 season with 11 sacks and 23 tackles for loss. In 2024, he added 7.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks to his resume.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
