Four-star recruit Lakeyleon Graves, out of Kilgore High School, announced his commitment to Texas State Friday morning. Graves became the first four-star high school recruit to commit to Texas State football in its program’s history.
According to 247Sports, Graves is the 32nd-ranked player in the state of Texas and 220th nationally.
Gabe Brooks, a 247Sports scouting analyst, had this to say about the two-way recruit:
- Highly productive two-way standout for one of Texas’ top Class 4A programs.
- Owns the height and frame potential that translates to a big perimeter playmaker, or multiple spots in the defensive back seven.
- Impressively varied on-field experience with snaps at receiver, safety, cornerback, linebacker, even limited edge reps.
- Natural athlete who displays above average initial acceleration despite a longer-striding gait.
- Active and aware with ball skills that will serve well offensively or defensively.
- Pure football player and very high-level competitor whose off-the-charts play desire shows in perimeter blocking conviction and defensive pursuit range.
- View as a P4 prospect on either side of the ball with high developmental upside. Defense likely provides the higher-ceiling potential given collection of physical tools, athleticism, and on-field context. Owns traits to become a difference-making starter with a ceiling beyond college.
In 2024, Graves totaled 136 tackles, six tackles for loss, three sacks and three interceptions on the defensive side of the ball. As a wide receiver, Graves tallied 987 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Graves’ performance in 2024 landed him First Team All-District spots on both sides of the ball and helped lead Kilgore to a 4A-D1 state runner-up finish.
