Louisiana 4-star RB takes in LSU’s opener

Louisiana’s 2025 class is deep with SEC-level talent, and one of the headliners is four-star running back James Simon.

The Calvary Baptist star is off to a strong start to his junior season, and he eclipsed the 100-yard rushing mark with a pair of touchdowns in a blowout win over Captain Shreve this past weekend.

With a double-digit offer list and heavy interest coming from a number of SEC teams, Simon is using the coming months to continue to learn more about the top programs in the race for his commitment.

The Simon family takes in Grambling State vs. LSU in Tiger Stadium

Simon was back on the sidelines for another LSU game this past weekend, but it wasn’t a normal visit for the Top 300 prospect.

Simon’s father, John Simon, is an assistant coach on the Grambling State staff, which made the first ever matchup between the two programs a family affair given the four-star is one of LSU’s top targets in the 2025 class.

“I had to support my dad, I had to support both sides,” said Simon, the No. 124 overall player in the country for next year’s recruiting cycle.

“They try their hardest and they’re doing the best they can,” he added on LSU’s push. “They just want me there to be able to come to represent LSU and represent my home state.”

Simon has grown close to LSU running backs coach Frank Wilson, who is looking to reel in the Shreveport product as one piece to a two-running back tandem that also includes Louisiana five-star running back Harlem Berry.

“I love Frank,” Simon told The Bengal Tiger staff. “Good person. Can’t wait to see what he’s about when it comes to coaching.

“I love (LSU). I love everything about them. When it comes down to fans, football, everything, just LSU, what is there not to love about LSU? My dad’s from Baton Rouge. I went to LSU before high school. I just love the culture, people and everything about it.”

The Tigers will have competition for Simon’s commitment

LSU holds the lead on the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM), but there’s competition.

Texas A&M, Alabama, Georgia and Texas are among the other teams turning up the heat on the Louisiana running back.

Simon will be in College Station on October 7 for Texas A&M’s home game against Alabama.

“A&M has been talking to me daily,” Simon said. “They really want me just as bad as LSU wants me. They’re right there with them. I want to see how that goes with them.”

Simon, who grew up in Plano, said the Longhorns are also making a big push.

“That’s where I’m from and it’s good to see how they put on for their home state,” he said. “I love to see how much they love me and want me to come back there and play for them.”

There’s also been constant communication from both the Tide and Bulldogs, and Simon will take in visits to both schools.

“I want to check out Alabama and I want to check out Georgia. I’ve never been there before,” he said.

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