Former 5-Star TE Arik Gilbert Could Be Heading Back To LSU

Never give up.

That should be one of the top takeaways from LSU's ongoing pursuit of former five-star tight end Arik Gilbert. The Tigers won the recruiting battle once, and they now look in good position to secure his services once again.

Coach Ed Orgeron cautioned on Tuesday night that no decision has been made, but things are looking up.

"We had a very good meeting," Orgeron told reporters, via Geaux 247. "There's been no decisions been made. He was happy. Everybody was happy to see him. We checked with compliance to make sure that everything that he was doing was on the up and up when he come meet him and he could come talk to us.

"He left. He hadn't made a decision yet, hadn't told us anything yet. I think it's still up in the air, but it was a very positive day when he came."

At one time, LSU expected Gilbert to be a major part of its offense in 2021. In his freshman season, the 6-foot-5, 249-pound pass-catcher hauled in 35 catches for 368 yards and two scores. With Terrace Marshall Jr. now gone, naturally Gilbert's role would have increased in Year 2.

Unfortunately, Gilbert entered the transfer portal back in January after opting out of the last two games of the 2020 season.

It was reported that he was homesick and wanted to go back to his home state of Georgia, but that theory was undermined when he committed to Dan Mullen and Florida. During his short time in Gainesville, he changed his mind once again and went back on the search for a home.

Now there's a strong possibility that the former blue chip prospect could end up back with the Tigers.

If that happens, Orgeron should give himself a pat on the back. With all the allegations and investigations happening in Baton Rouge, convincing Gilbert to return is no small feat. He obviously loved it there, and the Tigers certainly loved having him.

The value of his return to the offense cannot be overstated.

Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.