Ole Miss is in a fierce recruiting battle with LSU and Alabama for elite tight end prospect Kaiden Prothro, the No. 2 ranked tight end in the 2026 class. Prothro, a 6-foot-6, 210-pound standout from Bowdon High School in Georgia, is being courted by several top programs, including Georgia, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, and Texas, in addition to Ole Miss, LSU, and Alabama. Ole Hotty Toddy
Prothro’s impressive size and athleticism have made him a coveted recruit. In his high school career, he has showcased versatility by playing both tight end and cornerback, and he recently helped Bowdon High School secure a state championship. His performance and potential have drawn significant attention from major college football programs.
Ole Miss, under head coach Lane Kiffin, has been proactive in strengthening its tight end position. The Rebels have successfully utilized the transfer portal to add talent, including former Arkansas tight end Luke Hasz and Virginia Tech transfer Dae’Quan Wright. Hasz, rated as the No. 2 tight end transfer by 247Sports, brings significant experience and skill to the position. Wright, who joined Ole Miss in 2024, has also contributed to the team’s depth at tight end. Ole Miss Athletics – Hotty Toddy+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2Ole Miss Athletics – Hotty Toddy
LSU has also been active in recruiting tight ends, securing commitments from prospects like Mike Tyler, a 6-foot-4, 230-pound tight end from Columbia, South Carolina. Tyler chose LSU over offers from Ole Miss, NC State, Duke, and West Virginia. Saturday Down South
Alabama continues to be a formidable presence in tight end recruiting, having added four-star tight end Caleb Odom to its 2024 class. Odom, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 215 pounds, chose Alabama over Ole Miss, Miami, Texas A&M, and Florida. His addition bolsters Alabama’s already strong recruiting class. Canal Street Chronicles+4SI+4Ole Hotty Toddy+4
The competition for Prothro’s commitment is intense, with each program offering unique advantages. Ole Miss’s recent success in integrating transfer tight ends into their offense could be appealing to Prothro, demonstrating a clear pathway to playing time and development. LSU’s track record of producing NFL-caliber tight ends, such as Mason Taylor, who was recently selected by the New York Jets in the 2025 NFL Draft, showcases their ability to develop talent at the position. Alabama’s consistent presence in the national championship conversation and history of developing top-tier talent make it an attractive destination for any recruit.Ole Hotty ToddyWikipedia
As Prothro continues to evaluate his options, the decision will likely come down to which program best aligns with his personal and athletic goals. Each school offers a compelling case, and his choice will be a significant addition to whichever program he selects.
