Hugh Freeze’s firing has created a major ripple effect across Auburn football. The timing, the uncertainty, and the sudden shift in leadership have all combined to shake the foundation of the Tigers’ 2026 recruiting class.
No case highlights this more than five-star safety Bralan Womack, whose commitment now appears far from secure. Auburn invested heavily in this recruiting cycle, but the removal of Freeze has opened the door for one of the richest programs in the sport, valued at $973 million, to make a serious push.
Texas A&M, backed by one of the largest financial machines in college athletics, has pounced immediately. Womack’s commitment to Auburn always carried an element of risk because it was heavily connected to Freeze and his defensive vision.
When Auburn decided to part ways with its head coach, that connection weakened overnight. Coaching changes often force players to rethink long-term plans, especially elite prospects who want clarity about scheme, staff, and development.
With Auburn now in search mode and running an interim staff, the timing gives Texas A&M a clear advantage. On3’s Steve Wiltfong recently evaluated the situation and noted strong momentum for the Aggies.
FONG BOMB: Rivals’ @SWiltfong_ has logged an expert prediction for Texas A&M to flip Auburn 5-star Safety commit Bralan Womack👍
Read: https://t.co/NwmHdyki0K pic.twitter.com/j3iWfo4pO6
— Rivals (@Rivals) November 17, 2025
Womack and his family visited the Aggies, spent time with Mike Elko’s staff, and reconnected with players on the roster. Relationships drive these decisions, and A&M has been consistent with its pursuit well before his initial commitment.
The odds of a flip have grown since Freeze’s departure. Auburn can still recover, especially if the school hires a respected defensive coach quickly, but the silence that often follows a midseason firing gives rivals room to operate.
Hugh Freeze’s Health Struggles
Freeze’s firing comes during a difficult period for him personally. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier in the year. Although doctors described it as treatable, the demands of running an SEC program placed enormous strain on his recovery process.
Throughout the season, Freeze tried to remain focused on the team, but the pressure, long hours, and emotional toll of a tough campaign added complications. Recent updates from his family suggest his condition worsened during the season.
“In some twisted way, there’s a relief factor for me personally because I’ve watched my dad’s health just deteriorate over this,” Freeze’s daughter, Madi, SAID in a TikTok video. “Other people can see it, I know y’all can see it, he’s not healthy.”
The stress of coaching while managing cancer treatments took a visible toll. Now that he is no longer leading the program, he is expected to undergo additional procedures and shift attention toward his health. Freeze is expected to make a full recovery.
Read More:
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
