In a stunning turn of events, four-star linebacker JaMichael Garrett has announced his decommitment from Auburn University, sending shockwaves through the Tigers’ 2026 recruiting class. The 6’2, 205-pound prospect from Central, Louisiana, had been committed to Auburn since July 2024, but on June 12, 2025, he revealed his decision to reopen his recruitment, citing the need to find a program that aligns with his long-term dreams and aspirations. This move marks a significant loss for Auburn, as Garrett, ranked as the No. 138 overall prospect and No. 10 linebacker in the 2026 cycle by ESPN, was a cornerstone of their recruiting efforts.
Garrett’s decision comes after nearly 11 months of commitment to the Tigers, a period during which he developed strong ties with Auburn’s coaching staff, including defensive coordinator DJ Durkin and cornerbacks coach Wesley McGriff. His initial pledge followed Auburn’s Big Cat Weekend in July 2024, where the program’s family-like atmosphere and proximity to his home state of Alabama—where he transferred to Auburn High School for his senior season—played a significant role in his choice. Auburn was the first SEC school to offer Garrett a scholarship in October 2023, and their early investment had positioned them as the frontrunner for the versatile linebacker, who recorded 91 tackles, 36 for loss, and 11 sacks over his last two high school seasons.
However, Garrett’s recent statement on X shed light on his reasoning: “I was committed to Auburn for almost a year, didn’t de-commit for money I de-committed so i can properly search for a program that can help me fulfill all my dreams & aspirations.” This suggests that Garrett is seeking a program that not only offers athletic opportunities but also aligns with his personal and professional goals beyond football. With 33 offers from top programs like Miami, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, LSU, and Michigan, Garrett has no shortage of options as he explores his future.
The decommitment is a blow to Auburn’s 2026 class, which still includes blue-chip prospects like four-star edge rusher Hezekiah Harris and linebacker Shadarius Toodle. Auburn’s recruiting momentum under head coach Hugh Freeze has been notable, with the Tigers securing 13 ESPN 300 commits in the 2025 cycle and building a strong foundation for 2026. Losing Garrett, however, drops their 2026 class ranking and raises questions about their ability to retain top talent amidst fierce competition in the SEC.
Garrett’s next steps include visits to Miami and Texas A&M, with Ole Miss also in the mix. Posts on X indicate that Miami is recruiting him aggressively, with daily communication from their coaching staff, while Texas A&M’s recent success in flipping recruits adds to their appeal. Despite his decommitment, Garrett has stated that Auburn remains “not out of the picture,” suggesting the Tigers could still make a case to win him back.
For Auburn fans, this news stings, but the recruiting trail is far from over. Garrett’s decision underscores the fluid nature of modern college football recruiting, where relationships, development opportunities, and program vision play critical roles. As Garrett embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on where this dynamic linebacker lands next.
