Insider Predicts Four-State EDGE to Land with Auburn

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Alex O'Reilly | Last updated Jun 22, 2025 2:34 PM ET

The Auburn Tigers have struggled to stay competitive in the SEC in recent years. In their first two seasons with Hugh Freeze as head coach, they have not had a winning record. This past season, they finished 5-7 and did not qualify for a bowl game. However, despite their recent struggles, Auburn is still an appealing destination for many recruits.

On Sunday, On3 insider Jeffrey Lee officially predicted that four-star EDGE Jaquez Wilkes will land with the Tigers. Wilkes is a top 100 prospect and the No. 6-ranked player in Alabama in his class, according to On3.

Wilkes is a member of the 2026 recruiting class. In his projection, Jeffrey Lee indicated that he has 60% confidence that Wilkes will end up with the Tigers. While Lee is hedging his bets a little bit, the On3 website is much more confident. It indicates that there is a 94.7% chance that Wilkes will end up playing for the Tigers.

If Wilkes commits to the Tigers, he would be their most significant recruit in the class. Thus far, the team has only secured commitments from five players, only two of whom are four-star talents. EDGE Hezekiah Harris is the team's highest-ranked recruit in 2026 so far, and he is the No. 105-ranked player in the nation, according to On3. Conversely, Wilkes is the No. 84-ranked player in his class.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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