Five-star 2026 cornerback Karlyn Pickens initially BYU, Florida State, Oregon, and South Carolina as his top four programs. However, that list has shifted ahead of his final official visit, now including Nebraska, Texas, Miami, and Florida State. Karlyn is set to visit Columbia this weekend alongside a Tennessee Vols commit.

Five-star 2026 cornerback Karlyn Pickens initially BYU, Florida State, Oregon, and South Carolina as his top four programs. However, that list has shifted ahead of his final official visit, now including Nebraska, Texas, Miami, and Florida State. Karlyn is set to visit Columbia this weekend alongside a Tennessee Vols commit.

Five-star cornerback Karlyn Pickens, widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2026 recruiting class, initially listed BYU, Florida State, Oregon, and South Carolina among his top programs. However, as the recruiting process heats up and his official visits approach, Pickens’ list has evolved, now including Nebraska, Texas, Miami, and Florida State. This shift reflects his ongoing evaluation of programs, coaching staff, and campus environments as he prepares to make a crucial decision.

Pickens, who hails from a highly talented high school program, has garnered attention from college coaches across the country with his impressive athletic traits and football IQ. His versatility as a cornerback, combined with his size and speed, has made him a highly sought-after recruit. The fact that Florida State remains on his updated list indicates the Seminoles’ strong ongoing interest and the potential for a significant relationship ahead of his decision.

This weekend, Pickens is scheduled to visit Columbia, South Carolina, where he will tour the University of South Carolina’s campus and meet with the coaching staff. Interestingly, his visit coincides with a trip to Tennessee, where he will be touring alongside a committed Volunteer player. This dual visit suggests that Pickens is carefully weighing his options and gathering firsthand impressions to inform his final choice.

As the recruitment progresses, college programs are eager to impress Pickens and secure his commitment, which could significantly impact their defensive roster for the future. With several high-profile programs now in the mix, the decision-making process promises to be highly competitive.

Pickens’ final decision is anticipated in the coming weeks, and his visits this weekend will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. Coaches from the involved schools are expected to showcase their facilities, academic support, and team culture, all vital factors for the talented cornerback as he looks to find the best fit both athletically and academically.

Fans and analysts will be watching closely as this recruitment unfolds, knowing that landing a player of Pickens’ caliber could be a game-changer for any program. His combination of athleticism, football intelligence, and leadership qualities make him a highly coveted talent in the 2026 class, and his decision will be a significant story in the college football recruiting landscape.