AUBURN NEWS
Good News: Alabama Native, Jaquez Wilkes Chooses to stay home and build his future at Auburn.
In a significant recruiting win for Auburn football, Alabama native and highly-touted EDGE prospect Jaquez Wilkes has officially committed to the Tigers, choosing Auburn over a host of powerhouse programs including Georgia, LSU, and Tennessee. This announcement marks a major milestone for head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff as they continue to rebuild Auburn’s roster with elite in-state talent.
Wilkes, a 4-star prospect out of Birmingham (Ala.) Central High School, is widely considered one of the top edge rushers in the 2025 class. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing around 240 pounds, he’s known for his explosive first step, relentless motor, and ability to wreak havoc in the backfield. His combination of size, speed, and technique made him a priority target for multiple SEC giants, but it was Auburn that ultimately secured his signature.
“This is home,” Wilkes said during his commitment announcement. “Auburn showed me love from the beginning. The coaching staff, the fans, and the energy around the program just felt different. I want to be part of what they’re building.”
Staying Home, Building the Future
Wilkes’ decision to stay in-state and commit to Auburn is a major signal that the Tigers are regaining their recruiting momentum, especially within Alabama’s borders. For years, Auburn has battled not only in-state rival Alabama but also regional juggernauts like Georgia and LSU for elite talent. Landing Wilkes sends a clear message: Auburn is back in the mix for top-tier athletes.
Head coach Hugh Freeze and defensive coordinator Ron Roberts played key roles in securing Wilkes’ commitment. Known for their aggressive defensive philosophy, both coaches outlined a clear path for Wilkes to make an immediate impact on the Plains. His skill set fits perfectly into Auburn’s hybrid pass-rush schemes, which value versatility, speed, and power off the edge.
A Key Piece for Auburn’s Defensive Future
With Auburn transitioning into a new era under Freeze, stacking elite talent on defense is a high priority. Wilkes projects to be a cornerstone piece of that defensive rebuild. His tape shows a player with rare instincts—he reads plays quickly, adjusts on the fly, and finishes with authority. Coaches have praised his football IQ and leadership, two traits that will be invaluable as he enters the next level.
“Jaquez is a difference-maker,” said one Auburn assistant coach. “He’s the kind of guy who can change a game with a single play. We’re thrilled to have him choose Auburn.”
Recruiting Momentum Building
Wilkes’ commitment is also expected to spark further momentum in Auburn’s 2025 recruiting class. It sends a strong message to other top Alabama prospects that they can stay home and compete at the highest level. In recent weeks, Auburn has been gaining traction with several other blue-chip recruits, and Wilkes’ decision could be a tipping point.
Social media reactions poured in within minutes of his announcement. Auburn fans, alumni, and even current players celebrated the commitment, with many calling it one of the most significant recruiting wins in recent years.
Conclusion
Landing Jaquez Wilkes is more than just a big recruiting victory—it’s a culture-defining moment for Auburn football. As an in-state star with offers from some of the nation’s most elite programs, his choice to don the orange and blue proves that Auburn is once again a destination for top talent.
With Wilkes now in the fold, expectations for Auburn’s defensive future are sky-high. And if his high school performances are any indication, it won’t be long before Jaquez Wilkes becomes a household name not just in Alabama, but across the SEC.
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