Auburn Eyes Four-Star QB Jaden O’Neal as Sooners’ Commitment Wavers
As Auburn continues its pursuit of top-tier talent this offseason, the Tigers are looking to add to an already promising 2024 season by securing a standout quarterback from the Class of 2026—Jaden O’Neal. A four-star recruit out of Mustang High School in Mustang, Oklahoma, O’Neal is currently committed to Oklahoma, but recent developments suggest that his loyalty to the Sooners could be in question.
While Oklahoma appeared to be the front-runner for O’Neal, the talented pocket passer has kept his options open. In fact, the young quarterback is planning several visits to other schools, including Auburn and Florida State. According to On3’s Steve Wiltfong, these upcoming visits are part of his ongoing recruitment, which may signal a shift in his commitment. His visit to Georgia at the end of March further fueled speculation that he may be exploring other options.
This uncertainty in O’Neal’s commitment comes amid Oklahoma’s pursuit of another high-profile quarterback for the 2026 class—four-star Bowe Bentley. The Sooners’ interest in Bentley could potentially complicate O’Neal’s standing with Oklahoma, as Bentley is set to visit Norman in June. For O’Neal, this additional quarterback competition might cause doubts about his future with the Sooners, prompting him to reevaluate his options.
Ranked as the No. 11 quarterback in the nation by the 247Sports Composite, O’Neal’s skillset has earned him a spot among the top recruits of his class. Not only is he the No. 1 prospect in Oklahoma, but he is also the 138th-ranked overall recruit for the 2026 cycle. His ability to perform under pressure and make precise throws has caught the attention of major programs, making him one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the country.
For Auburn, the potential to land O’Neal could be a game-changer for its future quarterback situation. With the Tigers’ coaching staff making strong efforts to solidify their recruiting class, O’Neal represents a key target who could elevate Auburn’s offensive prospects for years to come. If O’Neal does ultimately flip his commitment, it would be a significant win for Auburn in a highly competitive recruiting battle.
With several visits ahead, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining where O’Neal lands. For now, Auburn’s chances of securing this four-star talent remain alive, and the Tigers are hoping to make a strong impression in his recruitment process.