Jireh Edwards, a five-star safety out of St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Md., is one of the most coveted recruits in the 2026 class. Ranked as the No. 2 safety in the country and No. 16 overall by Rivals, Edwards has racked up nearly 30 offers from powerhouse programs across the nation.
The 6-foot-2, 192-pound defensive back has elite instincts, size, and versatility, drawing attention from nearly every major college football program.
Potential Landing Spots for Jireh Edwards
While the buzz around his recruitment has been building for months, things are heating up as Alabama ramps up their pursuit ahead of his official visit to Tuscaloosa on June 6–9. Edwards has already visited Oregon, Texas A&M, Auburn, and Maryland, and his top-five is starting to solidify with summer decision windows looming.
With blue bloods vying for his signature, Edwards’ recruitment could shake up the 2026 class.
Alabama is in heavy pursuit of No. 2 safety Jireh Edwards
He visited Tuscaloosa in March, and is set for an OV.
“They continue to strive for greatness and to play at a national championship level.”
A look inside his recruitment…
STORY: https://t.co/4FmtQzsz87 pic.twitter.com/grPoZRzeFk
— Andrew Bone (@AndrewJBone) April 29, 2025
Where Could Jireh Edwards Commit?
A handful of schools have emerged as serious contenders, shaped by recent visits, coaching connections, and fit within each program’s defensive scheme. NIL opportunities, early playing time potential, and relationships with recruiters are all playing major roles in Edwards’ decision.
Why Alabama Is Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Jireh Edwards
Nick Saban may be gone, but Alabama is still Alabama. The Tide are making a serious push to secure Edwards’ commitment, and his upcoming official visit is a pivotal moment in their pursuit. With a history of producing NFL-ready defensive backs, Alabama can offer unmatched development and national exposure.
New staff under Kalen DeBoer has prioritized Edwards, and insiders say the program is going all-in during his June visit. Given Alabama’s defensive tradition and their desire to reload in the secondary, expect a high-impact pitch.
Oregon Could Be Building Momentum With Jireh Edwards
Dan Lanning’s Ducks hosted Edwards recently, reinforcing their long-standing interest. Though it had been a while since Edwards was out West, his recent visit to Eugene was reportedly a strong one. Oregon has consistently been in the mix, and their pitch focuses on early playing time, innovative schemes, and a strong NFL pipeline.
The Ducks’ connection with St. Frances Academy and their renewed effort could help tip the scales.
Is Jireh Edwards Trending Toward Texas A&M?
Texas A&M made a strong impression during Edwards’ official visit. With an aggressive defensive mindset and a depth chart that may offer quicker playing time, the Aggies are a dark horse that could rise. There’s buzz building around College Station, and NIL opportunities could also be a factor.
Don’t Sleep on Maryland in the Race for Jireh Edwards
Staying home is still on the table. Maryland has done a solid job recruiting locally under Mike Locksley, and there’s real appeal in becoming the face of the Terrapins’ defense. While not a traditional powerhouse, Maryland is a sentimental option, and may surprise late.
Could Auburn Seal the Deal With Jireh Edwards?
Hugh Freeze and Auburn have hosted Edwards and continue to push hard. With SEC prestige, a path to early snaps, and an energized fanbase, the Tigers are very much alive in this race. If Edwards narrows his list again, don’t be surprised if Auburn is still standing.
KEEP READING: Alabama Leads the Way With 8 Players on CSN’s 2026 NFL Draft Top 100
No matter where Jireh Edwards ends up, his commitment will be a major headline in the 2026 recruiting cycle. With top programs like Alabama, Oregon, Texas A&M, Auburn, and Maryland all making compelling pitches, Edwards holds the cards as one of the most sought-after defenders in the nation.
As his official visits wrap up and decision time draws closer, all eyes will be on the five-star safety to see which school he’ll choose to anchor its secondary for years to come.
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