The Auburn Tigers are intensifying their efforts in the 2026 recruiting cycle, with a particular focus on securing a commitment from four-star running back Jae Lamar. Hailing from Moultrie, Georgia, Lamar has emerged as one of the nation’s premier running back prospects, and his recruitment is drawing significant attention from top college football programs.
Jae Lamar: A Rising Star
Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, Lamar boasts a 247Sports composite ranking of 95.55, placing him as the No. 7 running back and a top-100 overall player in the 2026 class. During his junior season at Colquitt County High School, he showcased his explosive playmaking ability by averaging an impressive 7.9 yards per carry, accumulating 885 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns . His performance has solidified his status as a coveted recruit among elite college programs.
Auburn Tigers Among Finalists
Auburn has successfully positioned itself as a finalist in Lamar’s recruitment. The Tigers are competing with other prestigious programs such as Georgia, Ohio State, Florida, Miami, Florida State, North Carolina, Clemson, Tennessee, and Alabama. Lamar has scheduled an official visit to Auburn on May 16, which is anticipated to play a pivotal role in his decision-making process .
The coaching staff at Auburn, led by head coach Hugh Freeze and running backs coach Derrick Nix, has made Lamar a top priority. Lamar has expressed his appreciation for their authenticity and the familial atmosphere they promote within the program. He noted that during his visit to Auburn’s campus, he felt a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie, which has positively influenced his perception of the Tigers .
Strategic Importance of the Recruitment
Securing Lamar’s commitment would be a significant boost for Auburn’s 2026 recruiting class, which currently ranks 13th nationally according to On3, with seven commits. Adding a talent of Lamar’s caliber would not only enhance the Tigers’ offensive prospects but also serve as a statement of intent in the competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC) recruiting landscape.
Lamar’s recruitment is particularly crucial for Auburn as the program seeks to strengthen its running back position. Currently, the Tigers have not secured a commitment from any running back in the 2026 class, making Lamar a key target. His versatility and playmaking ability would provide Auburn with a dynamic offensive weapon capable of making an immediate impact.
With official visits to Georgia, Miami, and Florida State scheduled following his trip to Auburn, Lamar’s recruitment is entering a critical phase. His commitment date is set for July 4, which will conclude a summer of intense evaluation and decision-making. As the recruitment process unfolds, Auburn will continue to leverage its coaching staff’s relationships, campus environment, and program culture to persuade Lamar that The Plains is the ideal place for his collegiate career.
In summary, the Auburn Tigers are actively pursuing one of the nation’s top running back prospects in Jae Lamar. With a strategic official visit on the horizon and strong support from the coaching staff, Auburn is positioning itself as a formidable contender in this high-stakes recruitment. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether Lamar will choose to bring his talents to Auburn, potentially reshaping the future of the Tigers’ offense.
