Welcome to our series chronicling the 2026 USF Recruiting Class where we cover every single recruit who signed with the Bulls during Early Signing Day! Let’s welcome LB Lorenzo Barnes to the Bulls!
LB Lorenzo Barnes (Gadsden County – Marianna, FL)
Committed to the Bulls on May 24th, 2025, Barnes is one of two linebackers committed to the 2026 class at the end of the early signing period. Via Rivals.com, Barnes received offers from Troy, West Georgia, Jacksonville State, and Coastal Carolina during his recruitment.
Marianna 👉 Tampa Bay
Welcome to the Bay, @Zobarnes2! pic.twitter.com/cklrZXxtTr
— USF Football (@USFFootball) December 3, 2025
Run the Tape:
Physical measurables match up well for a linebacker at the Division 1 level. Sound tackler who was asked to make plays in space when he was lined up outside. Plays the position like he is shot out of a cannon who looks to run through ballcarriers. Impressive closing speed who shows promise in man/zone coverage calls on passing downs.
Mike’s Take:
Man, I’m getting former Bull Jhalyn Shuler vibes from Barnes who both play linebacker with the same disruptive style that makes them a force on defense no matter where they end up on the field after the whistle is blown. One thing that impressed me with Barnes is the physicality that he brings to the position, not just as an inside linebacker, but also in more of a hybrid role where he was asked to make plays in space. Did the Bulls find a diamond in the rough out of Marianna, FL? I guess we will find out soon enough!
Welcome to the Bulls Lorenzo!
by Mike Cusimano
Journalist & Recruiting Analyst, SoFloBulls.com | Twitter:Â @micCusiÂ