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Ole Miss Reportedly Leads Tennessee, Auburn for 4-Star Recruit Nearing Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Alexander Hart | Last updated Jul 4, 2025 10:08 AM ET

Lane Kiffin and the Ole Miss Rebels are leading the charge for four-star class of 2026 safety Craig Tutt, according to OM Spirit.

Tutt will make his official announcement on July 18th, and Ole Miss is currently the favorite over rival SEC programs Auburn and Tennessee.

He spoke highly about the Ole Miss coaching staff and their ability to make you feel at home, emphasizing their family-oriented approach.

"All the coaches are family-oriented," Tutt said. "You can tell you're welcomed here. I had a great time. We were just talking. Just building that relationship and connection. It wasn't a persuading type and I enjoyed that also."

Tutt, a standout at Oakland High School in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, has made a name for himself with his versatile play in the secondary. He is currently the fifth-ranked player in Tennessee, according to 247Sports.

In his junior season, he averaged 4.3 tackles per game and had a total of seven pass break-ups. His athleticism speaks for itself as he can play every defensive back position, and he excels beyond the football field.

"They see me as very versatile. I had a lot of meetings, I can play corner, I can play the Nickel spot [and] I can play both safeties," Tutt said. "Just them seeing me to be so versatile, I like that. I feel like I can do it all, too. Just me being able to show that put me in a great position."

If Tutt commits, he will become the fifth four-star prospect to join the 2026 recruiting class.

Four-star tight end JC Anderson committed to Ole Miss on Tuesday and also credited the coaching staff's welcoming atmosphere as a key factor in his decision to join the Rebels.

It is clear the Ole Miss staff has developed a strong reputation for its family-oriented approach to recruiting, a quality that continues to resonate with top prospects.

The Rebels are also in the mix for four-star wide receiver Xavier McDonald, who is announcing his decision on Friday.

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

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