Auburn football secured a major commitment—both figuratively and literally—with the addition of top prospect, a towering 6-foot-7, 370-pound offensive tackle.
Hailing from New Zealand, he makes history as the first player from the NFL Academy Asia-Pacific campus to commit to a U.S. college program. His pledge to the Tigers came swiftly after he attended Auburn’s prospect camp on June 1, taking less than a month to make his decision official.
His size and international background add a unique dimension to Auburn’s 2026 recruiting class, signaling the program’s growing reach and emphasis on physical dominance up front.
Nikau Hepi is rated as a three-star prospect and currently holds the No. 852 overall ranking in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite.
While he remains a bit raw in terms of technique and experience, Hepi’s massive frame immediately sets him apart in Auburn’s 2026 recruiting class. His rare size and physical upside make him a high-ceiling developmental prospect for the Tigers’ offensive line.
With Nikau Hepi’s commitment, Auburn’s 2026 recruiting class is back up to six total pledges, though the group currently ranks just 81st nationally, per 247Sports Composite rankings.
The Tigers have experienced some recent setbacks, with three decommitments over the past two weeks. As it stands, only two of Auburn’s six commits are rated four stars or higher by 247Sports.
Hepi becomes the second offensive lineman in the class, joining three-star interior lineman Parker Pritchett, who committed back in April. Despite the rawness of some prospects, Auburn continues to build out its trenches while aiming to regain momentum on the recruiting trail.