Jacksonville State added a huge defensive piece to its 2026 recruiting class on Monday.
Central-Phenix City defender Tristan Lyles announced his commitment to the Gamecocks and head coach Monday, adding to a growing 2026 class for head coach Charles Kelly.
Lyles picked the Gamecocks over offers from Auburn, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Georgia Tech, West Virginia, Colorado, UAB, Troy, UTSA, FAU and more.
The linebacker was previously committed to Appalachian State.
As a senior, Lyles finished with 84 tackles (69 solo), 32 tackles for loss, 20 sacks, 13 hurries and five forced fumbles as Central-Phenix City finished its season in the Class 7A state semifinals.
Lyles finished his high school career with 237 tackles (165 solo), 47 sacks and 13 forced fumbles.
He was named a MaxPreps sophomore All-American in the 2023 football season after helping lead the Red Devils to a Class 7A championship.
Lyles is a consensus 3-star prospect as is rated by 247Sports as the No. 45 prospect in the state of Alabama for the 2026 class.
Jax State (8-4) will host Kennesaw State in the Conference USA championship game on Friday. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at AmFirst Stadium.