Well, almost every football team is sprinting in the recruiting race as if their season depended on it—because it does. Miss out on elite players, and you’re not just losing talent; you’re jeopardizing your championship aspirations. Take Ohio State, for example, whose $20 million roster was not built overnight—it was a strategic investment for a chance at glory.

Now add state title-winning quarterback Travis Burgess to the equation, and the stakes intensify. As a top-100 QB in the 2026 class, Burgess is more than just a recruit; he is a game changer, and Auburn is eager to capitalize on this opportunity. However, the competition is fierce, as Burgess is also considering another ACC program, turning the recruiting battle into a bare-knuckle brawl.

ACC rival eyeing Travis Burgess

After an impressive junior season, particularly with a strong finish and winning a state title, more schools are showing interest in Grayson (Ga.) quarterback Travis Burgess. Auburn was quick to start recruiting him, offering him a spot in late December and inviting him to Junior Day at the end of January. However, it seems Travis is exploring other options. On3’s Vice President of recruiting, Steve Wiltfong, hit X with the news that reads, “Loganville (Ga.) Grayson QB Travis Burgess will take his OV to Duke the weekend of June 20.” This may not be the news Hugh Freeze was expecting.

Look, what makes Hugh Freeze’s program a top contender for Travis is their lack of a quarterback. Yes, you heard that right. Auburn has not yet secured a quarterback for its 2026 class, but Travis Burgess seems like a strong candidate to fill that role. With a strong arm, speed, pocket composure, and the ability to throw catchable passes, the 6-foot-5, 205-pound QB drew high praise from renowned recruiting analyst Tom Lemming. His size, arm talent, and mobility tick every box the Tigers are looking for in a quarterback. Currently, Auburn is in a strong position to recruit him, with a 90.9% chance of landing him, according to On3.

Travis Burgess has several options to consider. He has received offers from Arizona State, Boston College, Virginia Tech, Central Michigan, Florida Atlantic, and Kent State. However, Auburn is currently leading the race after leaving a strong impression during his Junior Day visit last month. And let’s not forget, even Travis Burgess is the one keeping Auburn among his top priorities. As after his AU junior day visit, he said, “It was awesome to get out here, finally get to Auburn, It was awesome to be out here and meet the players and meet the coaches.”

But before he decides, he’s making another stop at Duke. So, yeah, Auburn might be in the lead, but this recruitment? Far from over. And you’ve got to wonder, what’s making him so desirable right now?

Why is Auburn rooting so hard for Travis Burgess?

Travis Burgess isn’t just making noise; he’s cranking up the volume. On the field, the court, and the recruiting trail, everything’s falling into place for the Class of 2026 quarterback. Burgess burst onto the scene at Grayson High School in Loganville, leading the Rams to a 6A state championship and solidifying his presence in the recruiting world.

Now a three-star prospect, Burgess is not only receiving numerous offers but also proving his worth. In 2024, he dazzled with a 60% completion rate, throwing for 2,255 yards and 23 touchdowns. He also showcased his versatility by rushing 58 times for 596 yards and four additional touchdowns.

Not bad for a guy who spent his sophomore year sitting behind Jeff Davis (now at Western Michigan). Back then, he only saw action in five games. Fast forward a year, and he’s played 15, leveled up his game, and made it clear—he’s not waiting in the wings anymore. Now you can understand why Auburn isn’t leaving a single chance to land Travis.

And yeah, if Travis Burgess hops on board, Auburn’s 2026 class gets even scarier. His addition wouldn’t just be a win—it’d be another big-time boost for a group already sitting at No. 4 nationally and No. 2 in the SEC with six commits locked in. The Tigers are stacking talent, and Burgess could be the next piece to push them over the top. We’ll just have to wait and see if his visit to Duke could actually turn things around for the Tigers or not.