The Mississippi State Bulldogs are not backing down on the recruiting trail, and their latest target is one of the best defensive prospects in the nation. Mississippi State has made a significant push for Auburn’s five-star safety commit Bralan Womack, signaling that the in-state program is serious about reshaping its 2026 recruiting class.
Womack, a standout at Hartfield Academy in Flowood, Mississippi, is rated as the No. 13 overall prospect and the top safety in the nation for the Class of 2026, according to the 247Sports Composite rankings. The elite defender originally committed to Auburn in August, but recent developments suggest his recruitment may not be entirely settled.
Mississippi State Steps In
According to reports from 247Sports, Womack made a visit to Mississippi State this past weekend, where he was given what one source described as “five-star treatment.” The Bulldogs’ staff, led by head coach Jeff Lebby, made their pitch to the local product with a strong message — that Mississippi State wants to build its future defense around him.
Womack’s visit came at a crucial time, as Auburn continues to face instability following the recent coaching change that saw Hugh Freeze dismissed from his post. That move has shaken up Auburn’s recruiting class and opened the door for rival programs to make a run at some of its top commitments.
Why It Matters
Landing Womack would be a program-changing win for Mississippi State. The Bulldogs have not signed a five-star recruit from their home state in several years, and flipping one away from an SEC rival like Auburn would send a powerful message to the rest of the conference.
For Auburn, however, this development adds more uncertainty to a recruiting class that once looked secure. Womack has been viewed as a future defensive cornerstone, and losing him would deal a serious blow to the Tigers’ defensive recruiting plans.
What’s Next
The early signing period is just around the corner, and sources say Womack is expected to re-evaluate his options before making any final decisions. While he remains publicly committed to Auburn for now, the Bulldogs have put themselves firmly in contention.
Mississippi State’s coaching staff reportedly emphasized Womack’s proximity to home, his potential role as an immediate contributor, and the chance to be a leader in a defense built around his skill set.
Recruiting experts believe the race could tighten in the coming weeks, especially if Womack schedules additional visits or if Auburn fails to stabilize its coaching situation.
The Bottom Line
Mississippi State has officially entered the race for Bralan Womack — and they’re not playing catch-up anymore. With one of the top defensive players in the country considering his future, this storyline could become one of the most closely watched recruitment battles in the SEC heading into signing season.
If Mississippi State can pull off the flip, it would mark one of the biggest recruiting victories in program history — and signal that the Bulldogs are ready to compete with the SEC’s elite on and off the field.