No. 1 Recruit Commits to Auburn Tigers Football, Says He Chose the Tigers for Two Key Reasons**Read More **

The Auburn Tigers have struck gold on the recruiting trail once again, landing one of the most exciting young prospects in the 2026 class — Eric Perry, a dynamic running back from Southaven, Mississippi. The four-star playmaker announced his commitment to Auburn this week, choosing the Tigers over several major programs, including Ole Miss, Florida, and LSU.

Perry’s commitment marks another major recruiting victory for head coach Hugh Freeze, who has made a clear statement that Auburn is back to being a serious force in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The 5-foot-11, 195-pound running back is known for his combination of speed, strength, and field vision — traits that have made him one of the most talked-about offensive prospects in his class.

When Perry took the stage at his high school to make the announcement, the gym erupted in cheers as he revealed a navy and orange Auburn cap. Though many believed Ole Miss or LSU had the inside track, Perry shocked the crowd by pledging to the Tigers. Afterward, he said there were two main reasons he decided to call Auburn home — the coaching staff and the program’s family-like culture.

> “It just felt right,” Perry said following his commitment. “Coach Freeze and the coaching staff really care about their players, not just as athletes but as people. They’ve been honest with me from the start, and the family vibe around Auburn is something you can’t fake. That meant everything to me.”

Those words perfectly reflect what has become the new identity of Auburn football under Freeze. Since taking over the program, Freeze has placed heavy emphasis on recruiting players who fit not just on the field but within Auburn’s culture — a balance of hard work, integrity, and loyalty. Perry, with his humble personality and relentless motor, fits that mold perfectly.

Analysts have already praised the addition of Perry as a game-changer for the Tigers’ future backfield. His playing style has drawn comparisons to former Auburn star Tank Bigsby, combining breakaway speed with a bruising running style that wears down defenses. At Southaven High School, Perry rushed for over 1,400 yards and 19 touchdowns as a sophomore, earning First-Team All-State honors and catching the attention of scouts nationwide.

Recruiting expert Chad Simmons of On3 described Perry as a “prototype SEC back” who can make an impact from day one.

> “Eric Perry has that rare combination of burst and balance,” Simmons said. “He can hit the hole quickly, absorb contact, and keep his legs moving. Auburn is getting a kid who’s not only talented but has the work ethic to be great.”

For the Tigers, this commitment is more than just another addition — it’s a statement of intent. The 2026 class has started to gain national attention, and Perry’s pledge adds serious momentum. Auburn now has one of the most balanced recruiting classes in the SEC, filled with elite defensive prospects and explosive skill players like Perry.

Offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery reportedly played a crucial role in the recruitment. Montgomery was one of the first major coaches to visit Southaven High to see Perry in person, and his commitment to building a personal relationship clearly paid off. Perry mentioned how Auburn’s offensive system — which emphasizes creative running schemes and versatility — appealed to him.

> “I like how Auburn uses their backs,” Perry explained. “They don’t just hand it off and watch. They get their running backs involved in catching passes, blocking, and being all-around players. That’s how I want to play — making an impact in every way I can.”

With Perry now committed, Auburn fans are already envisioning the future. His presence could elevate the Tigers’ offense into one of the most explosive in the SEC in coming seasons. The backfield depth, combined with the offensive line talent Freeze is recruiting, sets Auburn up for long-term success.

For Perry, the focus now shifts to finishing strong in high school and preparing for the next chapter. He plans to take an official visit to Auburn later this year and hinted that he may graduate early to enroll in January 2026.

> “I’m locked in,” Perry said confidently. “Auburn is where I belong. I’m ready to work, ready to win, and ready to bring something special to The Plains.”

As Auburn continues to rebuild its identity under Freeze, commitments like Eric Perry’s show that the Tigers are not just chasing recruits — they’re landing leaders. His talent, attitude, and drive align perfectly with what Auburn football stands for. And for fans on The Plains, this commitment is a sign that the program’s best days may be closer than ever.