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COMMITMENT: 4-star LB Jaquez Wilkes commits to Auburn

Jeffrey Leeby: Jeffrey Lee07/21/25JLeeAUSports
Jaquez Wilkes
Photo: Jeffrey Lee, Auburn Live

Wadley (Ala.) four-star linebacker Jaquez Wilkes has committed to Auburn.

Wilkes, who is ranked the No. 6 overall recruit in Alabama, announced his decision Monday at a ceremony at Wadley High School. He chose Auburn over Alabama, Miami, Texas A&M and Florida State, among others.

“Auburn is home and I have great relationships with the coaches,” Wilkes said. “Being able to have this level of football beside my house, this close to home and without having to travel, I can’t beat it.”

Wilkes said Auburn defensive coordinator/linebackers coach DJ Durkin played a big role in his decision.

“Coach Durkin played a major role in my commitment,” Wilkes said. “He’s a great guy. He’s honest and truthful and a hell of a coach. I don’t have anything bad to say about him. Him being my position coach and also the defensive coordinator played a big role, too.”

Wilkes believes Auburn is heading in the right direction under third-year head coach Hugh Freeze.

“It’s a growing team since he’s been there,” Wilkes said. “He’s building it up. I believe in him and the next couple of years.”

Wilkes is ranked as the No. 15 edge in the country, but said Auburn is recruiting him to play middle linebacker.

“I feel great about Auburn,” he said.

Wilkes is the Tigers’ 11th commitment in the 2026 class and second linebacker, joining four-star outside backer Adam Balogoun-Ali.





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