By Dan Zealley
2026 OL Emanuel Tucker, from New Albany,Mississippi, had offers from other schools but decided to
stay close to home to play for the Bulldogs after discussions with his family according to 247Sports.
BREAKING: Top247 class of 2026 OL Emanuel Tucker has committed to Mississippi State.
“I’m staying home. Hail State. The family bond there is just unmatched anywhere else. It’s outstanding.”
Big win for @HailStateFB.
🔗 https://t.co/8AGRtNsZ1p@247Sports / @EmanuelTucker7 pic.twitter.com/MANhwZSjsA
— Tom Loy (@TomLoy247) February 18, 2025
After a disappointing season, Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby looks to build his team in the
trenches. The Bulldogs went 2-10 and 0-8 in the SEC in 2024. Lebby brought in Phil Loadholt as
offensive line coach during the off-season. Loadholt made Tucker an immediate priority.
“When Coach Loadholt arrived, he immediately started showing me a lot of love. I really feel like he is
going to be a coach who helps me develop and be able to make it on the next level” Tucker said.
It had been thought that Tucker would sign with the Miami Hurricanes, but he was more comfortable in
Starkville. Tucker also had offers to play on the defensive side of the ball. Ole Miss offered Tucker a
scholarship to play defensive tackle for the Rebels. Tucker feels that playing offensive line is the best
option for him in college.
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“The coaches were very excited to know that I am committing to Mississippi State,” said Tucker. Bulldog
coaches will be excited to see Tucker come to campus in 2026. He is the seventh commit to the class.
