Jeff Lebby Discusses Bulldogs Recruiting Vision as Mississippi State Loses Four-Star Recruit

Mississippi State football sees highs and lows in recruiting as JUCO star commits but 2025 four-star Mario Nash decommits after visiting Florida State

Kemper County offensive lineman Mario Nash Jr., photographed in Ridgeland, Miss., Aug. 10, 2024, is a member of the 2024 Clarion Ledger Dandy Dozen. / Barbara Gauntt/Clarion Ledger / USA TODAY NETWORK

Mississippi State made a big splash last week with the nation’s top junior college prospect committing to come to Starkville.

And based on comments Jeff Lebby made during his Monday morning press conference, the team’s 1-4 start isn’t hindering the Bulldogs’ recruiting efforts.

“I've told guys non stop, I've never been more convicted in who we are and where we're going than I am today,” Lebby said. “The guys that we're recruiting understand that. They understand the vision, and they understand there is real connection inside our building, and when you've got great relationships, I think it's hard for young people to, at the end of the day, say no, when there's true trust.”

A few hours later, Mississippi State lost one of its biggest commitments from its 2025 recruiting class.

First I want to thank Miss State and their staff for the time that they have spent in my recruitment, but after talking with my family, we have made the decision to reopen my recruitment

— Mario Nash Jr ⭐️ (@BigNash_77) October 7, 2024

Mario Nash Jr., a four-star offensive lineman at Kemper County (De Kalb, Miss.), announced Monday afternoon he was reopening his recruitment.

Nash was one of seven four-star players committed to Mississippi State and its only offensive lineman. He had been committed to the Bulldogs two days after his official visit to Starkville in late June.

Had a blast in Tallahassee @FSUFootball. I appreciate the staff and @Coach_Norvell @CoachAAtkins @Fertitta_Gabe for the hospitality. Made me feel at home again! Looking forward to being back! #CLIMB #Family #GoNoles pic.twitter.com/cgE21JL1KO

— Mario Nash Jr ⭐️ (@BigNash_77) October 7, 2024

The latest news comes just three days after Nash took an official visit to Florida State. Before visiting Starkville, Nash also took official visits to Ole Miss, LSU and Clemson.

Considering the timing of Nash’s visit to Florida State and the announcement of him reopening his commitment, the Seminoles are the most-likely front-runners.

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