Top-rated Wide Receiver Sends Auburn a Message Following the Hiring of Alex Golesh

The Auburn Tigers concluded their 2025 season with a 5-7 record after a 27-20 defeat against the Alabama Crimson Tide, officially ending their hopes of bowl eligibility. Following a 4-5 start, former head coach Hugh Freeze was dismissed on November 2, leaving Auburn in search of new leadership.

On Sunday, Auburn announced the hiring of Alex Golesh, formerly the head coach at USF Bulls since 2023. Golesh compiled a 23-15 record overall and went 9-3 in 2025, guiding USF to three consecutive bowl-eligible seasons.

The coaching change has drawn attention from top prospects, including 5-star wide receiver Jase Mathews from Leakesville, Mississippi, part of Auburn's 2026 recruiting class.

Speaking to Rivals Aaron Dickens, Mathews shared his initial thoughts on Golesh joining Auburn and the status of his commitment. I dont know too much yet, he said. I look forward to meeting him and seeing how things develop.

He added, Theres about a 90 percent chance I sign with Auburn. Ole Miss has a 7 percent shot, and Texas A&M about 3 percent.

Mathews commitment is pivotal for Auburn. Rivals ranks him as a five-star recruit, the nations No. 3 wide receiver, and the No. 20 overall player. Auburns 2026 recruiting class currently ranks 12th in the SEC with only 13 commitments, and Mathews is the sole wide receiver, capable of contributing immediately as a freshman.

Moving forward, Auburns challenge will be ensuring Golesh builds strong relationships with top recruits like Mathews to prevent other programs from swaying them. Texas A&M and Ole Miss remain potential competitors for his commitment.

This report originally appeared on Athlon Sports on November 30, 2025, in the College Football section.

Author: Sophia Brooks