"It’s just a great program right now to be at" — 2026 class four-star TE Kaiden Prothro shared impressions to his latest Auburn visit

Auburn's Big Cat Weekend has once again proved to be a crucial event for the program, leading to several new commitments. Among the notable attendees was Kaiden Prothro, a four-star tight end from the 2026 class, marking his second visit to Auburn this year.

In an interview with Auburn Live, Prothro recalled his journey to Hugh Freeze's program, saying:

“I feel like Auburn is a great school to be at. I’m always going to keep my options open. I feel like Auburn is going to be a good school in the next couple of years. I can’t really say much because I’m still looking at other schools, but I think Auburn is going to be a pretty good school for me.”

Auburn's offensive prowess last season will play a big role in attracting talent like Prothro. The Tigers' offense, led by standout tight end Rivaldo Fairweather, who topped the team in receptions and yards, has been phenomenal. Prothro had high praise for Auburn’s offensive achievements and the coaching staff, especially offensive coordinator Derrick Nix.

“They’ve got good things and good things going on for them. It’s just a great program right now to be at. I just think that’s why everyone is coming here and can see what the potential is at this school.”

During his visit, Prothro had the chance to connect with tight ends coach Ben Aigamaua, whom he described as a "great coach." He also had meaningful conversations with head coach Freeze.

“He’s going to keep it real with me and not lie to me, talking about what it’s like to be down here, what he sees me as in the future, and what I can do for the program.”

The 6-foot-6, 210-pound prospect had an incredible sophomore season, leading his high school in all major receiving categories with 33 catches for 831 yards and 13 touchdowns.

On3 listed Prothro as the No. 39 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 2 tight end in the 2026 class and the No. 8 recruit in Georgia. 247 Sports places him as the No. 81 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 5 tight end in the class and the No. 11 recruit in Georgia.

Which programs are in contention for Kaiden Prothro's commitment?

Auburn is leading the race for Kaiden Prothro's commitment, holding a 22.2 percent chance, according to the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine. The Tigers have built a strong 2026 class, with five players already committed, including edge rusher Hezekiah Harris, linebacker Shadarius Toodle, wide receiver Denairius Gray, linebacker JaMichael Garrett and interior lineman Kail Ellis.

Georgia is a close second with a 19.4 percent chance of earning Prothro's commitment. Growing up as a Georgia fan, Prothro has long admired the Bulldogs' ability to develop players and send them to the NFL. Receiving an offer from Georgia in January was a huge milestone for him.

“Georgia is just that school that is just one of the top schools that are brought up when you think about college football,” Prothro told Dawgs HQ. “You will be playing the best ball on the national TV. You will most definitely get to be in the spotlight every game.”

The Bulldogs' 2026 class, which includes Jared Curtis, Dominick Kelly and Jontavius Wyman, ranks No. 3 in the nation and No. 2 in the SEC.

Ole Miss is also a strong contender with a 16.7 percent chance of securing Prothro's commitment. He expressed excitement upon receiving an offer from the Rebels last year.

" Ole Miss is a great program and I see what they develop and how they are developing as a team," Prothro told Inside the Rebels. "I learned that they are a program that breaks things down and takes things step by step and they focus on what your next steps are and how to make you improve."

Despite not having any players committed to the 2026 class yet, Ole Miss's approach to development and personalized coaching may resonate with Prothro.