Hugh Freeze is on the recruiting trail, trying to plug the gaps in a roster that’s seen some rough seasons lately. But NIL deals constantly present unexpected challenges, and Auburn is now facing a battle to retain their prized 4-star linebacker. Against who? It’s the Buffs. Coach Prime smells blood in the water and moves in fast, threatening to sway the recruit to Colorado. This puts coach Freeze in a tricky situation hustling to steady the ship, knowing that Auburn cannot afford to lose this battle if they want a brighter future.

Well, it’s a do-or-die situation for every other team now. Either you fill up your roster with high-rated recruits, or you don’t let your players slide away easily. But in the case of JaMichael Garrett, both things might see a hit. Coach Prime and Buffs have given an offer to Garrett; even he seems to be very excited about the whole thing. Garrett said, “After a great conversation with @CoachHartCU, I am beyond blessed to receive an offer from THE University of Colorado!!!” Seems like their linebackers coach, Hart, has made an instant impact on him.

It looks like Hugh Freeze might see another Colton Hood-like situation with JaMichael Garrett if he chooses the Buffs over the Auburn Tigers. However, things are looking up for Hugh Freeze, as Garrett will be back on campus this weekend for the Tigers’ massive Junior Day. And a big part of that is Garrett, who says he can’t wait to be home once again. But when you have 25 prestigious programs eyeing you, players tend to have a second opinion.

Moreover, Garrett, still a junior at Auburn High, catches Colorado’s eye as they scramble for linebacker depth. The loss of 2024 starters LaVonta Bentley and Nikhai Hill-Green significantly weakens the Buffs’ defense. Despite landing Mantrez Walker during the early signing period, Colorado knows they need more firepower in the 2025 class, and Garrett could be the key to shoring up their linebacker corps, but not for the coming season.

But the desperation to land Garrett is real, and why not? This guy has some real talent, as 247Sports Composite ranks him as the No. 119 overall player and the No. 11 linebacker in the Class of 2026. Furthermore, as the seventh-ranked player in Alabama, he demonstrates that Gulf Shores produces high-caliber football players, challenging the perception of it as merely a beach town. However, for now, there’s plenty of time left for him to make his final move. Till then, let’s see what’s brewing at Auburn.

Things getting better for Hugh Freeze

While Auburn’s football fortunes may have waned on the field recently, their successes in recruiting and the transfer portal could swiftly change the narrative. Reports indicate that former Tigers staffer Chad Lunsford will return to coach special teams after a successful stint at FAU. Lunsford’s journey includes serving as FAU’s interim head coach in 2024, demonstrating his leadership abilities. His return further shows Auburn’s focus on rejuvenation on and off the field.

Moreover, on the recruiting front, Auburn’s 2025 class is showing great promise. With a top-10 group led by QB Deuce Knight, one of the most highly regarded prospects in the class, there are exciting things on the horizon. Knight will require playmakers, and Auburn has secured Eric Singleton Jr. to provide that explosive spark downfield. As KeAndre Lambert-Smith concludes his college career, there are ample opportunities for fresh talent.

Enter Squirrel White, a speedy native of Alabama who is transferring from Tennessee. White amassed an impressive 1,665 receiving yards and six touchdowns with the Vols, including a standout season of 803 yards in 2023. Following a quieter junior year, he sees the transfer portal as an opportunity to start anew, and Auburn feels like the perfect destination to revitalize his career. Now let’s see how this next season unfolds for them.