Sep 28, 2024; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver Tre Harris (9) stiff arms Kentucky Wildcats defensive back Zion Childress (11) after a catch during the first half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Ole Miss Football Battling Ohio State Buckeyes, Michigan Wolverines for Elite Wideout

Originally posted on Ole Miss Rebels on SI | By Zack Nagy | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 11:56 AM ET

Fort Wayne (Ind.) Northrop three-star wide receiver Jerquaden Guilford is down to four schools with a commitment date locked in for this summer as his recruiting process winds down.

Guilford, the No. 1 prospect in Indiana, continues his rise as a household name in the 2026 Recruiting Cycle with the Ole Miss Rebels heavily involved in his process.

After dishing out an offer in May, the Rebels hit the ground running in their pursuit of the Hoosier State wideout.

Now, Ole Miss has been labeled a finalist for the talented 6-foot-2, 180-pounder alongside the Ohio State Buckeyes, Michigan Wolverines and Indiana Hoosiers.

The hometown Hoosiers are currently viewed as the favorite in his recruitment, but Kiffin and Co. remain in the mix for the sought-after prospect down the stretch.

Guilford has locked in a commitment date for June 27, according to On3 Sports, where he will choose between his four finalists.

NEWS: Class of 2026 WR Jerquaden Guilford is down to Ohio State, Michigan, Indiana, & Ole Miss, he tells me for @on3recruits

The 6’2 195 WR from Fort Wayne, IN will announce his Commitment June 27th

Where Should He Go? ⬇️https://t.co/mPx23lZssa pic.twitter.com/hMqhQ7VwnJ
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 13, 2025

After backing off of a commitment to the Penn State Nittany Lions during his process, all focus has shifted towards making a final decision this summer for Guilford.

What will Guilford provide a program at the next level?

His trainer Dre Muhammad of Traction Athletic Performance told On3 Sports he believes the sky's the limit.

“Jerquaden shares similarities with elite prospects like (Ohio State’s) Mylan Graham, particularly in his commitment to mastering his craft and showcasing advanced skills. While there’s always room for growth and refinement, his natural talent and competitive spirit set him apart. He possesses an elite receiver skill set and thrives on competition, consistently elevating his performance as the stakes rise.

“Standing between 6’2″ and 6’3″, he runs a verified low 4.5 and weighs in at 190 pounds, with the potential to add another 10 pounds as he continues training before college. His stride length is exceptional, allowing him to cover significant ground effortlessly. Beyond his technical abilities, he’s a physical presence who isn’t afraid to block, is tough to bring down, and embraces every aspect of his development.

“Jerquaden is also maturing mentally, learning from those who came before him to adopt a professional mindset in his preparation and approach. He is undoubtedly among the top 15 receivers in the 2026 class, a status he reinforces by excelling against top competition in 7v7 and the summer circuit."

This article first appeared on Ole Miss Rebels on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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