The pursuit of 2023 Thomas County Central (Ga.) receiver/defensive back Adam Hopkins was full of intrigue. Texas A&M, Florida State, Arkansas, and Kansas State were in the running, but in the end the Auburn Tigers landed the four-star prospect.

WHAT THE TIGERS ARE GETTING

The Tigers are getting a two-way talent that has shinned against 6A Georgia competition. Coming up through the ranks as a receiver, Hopkins added corner to his game last fall receiving offers from Georgia, Florida State, and Arkansas as a defender with Penn State offering on both sides of the ball.

Through eight games played last season, Hopkins was credited with 15 stops, two picks, and an impressive 12 passes broken up. Hopkins led his Yellow Jackets squad in receptions (28) and receiving yards (357) as a junior. He is off to a highly productive senior campaign turning 10 receptions into three touchdowns.

WHAT MAKES HOPKINS DIFFERENT

Hopkins is a dynamic playmaker with great athleticism. The straight-ahead speed separates Hopkins from others. There is a second gear most do not have that Hopkins has turning on the jets to beat an angle for an explosive play. There is a swagger and confidence Hopkins brings to the field that helps him win battles while firing up the team as an emotional leader.

WHY THIS IS BIG FOR AUBURN

The Tigers 2023 recruiting class has been slow to build momentum, adding Hopkins is another win for the coaching staff. The one thing that sticks out, of the eight verbal commits, six are four-star talents. Hopkins brings more SEC speed and athleticism to the Tigers’ roster with the ability to play on the outside and inside on offense.

RECRUITING NOTES

Auburn hosted Hopkins on an official Sept. 10 helping close the deal. Hopkins had planned officials lined up with Arkansas on Oct. 1 and Kansas State Nov. 5.