The excitement surrounding LSU Football has been palpable following the first few seasons of Brian Kelly's tenure as the head coach. We are going to be focusing on his dedicated focus on prioritizing New Orleans in the team's development. By enlisting local talents such as Frank Wilson and Cortez Hankton, whose significant contributions are poised to reshape the LSU Football scene in the NOLA region.
Frank Wilson: The Native Talent Scout
Frank Wilson, a native of New Orleans and a two-time national recruiter of the year, was one of Brian Kelly's initial strategic appointments. By bringing in an individual with strong ties to the local football community, Kelly not only shows his dedication to developing local talent but also infuses the team with a unique sense of pride and enthusiasm. With Wilson's exceptional skills in identifying and nurturing top recruits, LSU Football is poised to enter a new era of excellence.
Having graduated from St. Augustine High School, Wilson served as an assistant coach at Karr High School in New Orleans from 1997 to 1999. He then took on the role of Head Coach at O.P. Walker for three seasons from 2000 to 2003. His connections to the region are deeply rooted. Following various coaching positions from 2005 to 2009, he spent five seasons at LSU as the RB Coach and recruiting coordinator, where he aggressively recruited the New Orleans area, securing top talents such as OBJ, Leonard Fournette, Tyrann Mathieu, Anthony Johnson, Deion Jones, Dwayne Thomas, Duke Riley, Malachi Dupre, Darrel Williams, and Donte Jackson, among others.
The Rise of Cortez Hankton: From Local Star to Coaching Sensation
A standout athlete and multi-year starter at St. Augustine High in New Orleans, Cortez Hankton has emerged as a true embodiment of the spirit and passion that defines Louisiana football. His roots in the local football scene run deep, shaping his journey from a promising high school player to his current role as the Co-Offensive Coordinator at LSU.
Bringing with him a wealth of experience and firsthand knowledge, Hankton's presence on the coaching staff at LSU represents a significant milestone in his career. His transition from a celebrated player to a respected coach has come full circle, as he now imparts his wisdom and expertise to the next generation of athletes.
Hankton's story not only adds a touch of nostalgia to the LSU Football narrative but also highlights the significance of recognizing and nurturing local talent within the organization. By embracing his Louisiana roots and contributing to the success of the team, Hankton symbolizes the importance of staying connected to one's origins while striving for excellence on a larger stage. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and coaches alike, showcasing the impact of dedication, hard work, and a deep-rooted love for the game.
Embracing Local Influence: A Winning Formula for Success
In the highly competitive realm of college football, leveraging local influence can make a significant difference. Brian Kelly's strategic approach to building a coaching team with deep connections to New Orleans not only strengthens the team's ties to the community but also enhances the recruitment process. By acknowledging the abundance of talent and expertise in NOLA, Kelly is paving the way for a more impactful LSU Football program.
Since arriving in Baton Rouge and forming his team, the emphasis on the NOLA region has been evident, resulting in 17 commitments and signees from this fertile recruiting ground. Additionally, numerous transfers from the NOLA area have chosen to return home, further highlighting the program's focus on local talent.
NOLA Schools and Their Number of Players
St. Augustine - 1
Edna Karr - 4
Isidore Newman - 2
Arch Bishop Rummel - 1
John Curtis - 1
Destrehan - 3
John Ehret - 1
John F Kennedy - 1
Warren Easton - 2
St. Martin's Episcopal - 1
McDonogh 35 - 1
Looking Ahead: The Promise of a Bright Future
Under the guidance of Brian Kelly, the LSU Football program is going through a period of transformation. The inclusion of local talents such as Frank Wilson and Cortez Hankton demonstrates the team's dedication to advancement, excellence, and community involvement. By emphasizing the development of local players and building strong connections with the local football community, LSU Football is ready to embark on an exciting journey towards success, unity, and accomplishment.
Among the untapped talent in the region is Jahkeem Stewart, the top-ranked player in the country for 2026, standing at 6'6" and weighing 270 pounds as a defensive lineman at St. Augustine, where both Wilson and Hankton also attended. Jabari Mack, a 6'0" wide receiver from Destrehan, holds the 76th spot in the national rankings.
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