Q&A with Auburn’s new 5-star commitment Perry Thompson
Five-star wide receiver Perry Thompson on Saturday flipped his commitment from Alabama to Auburn. The Foley, Ala.-product made his announcement during a visit for Big Cat Weekend.
Thompson talked with reporters following his visit and went in-depth on his commitment to the Tigers.
When did you know you would flip to Auburn?
“Honestly, about a month ago. When I came here, it was just the environment and everything just felt like home and I was like, ‘yeah … this is it.’”
Was it during your official visit (June 16-18)?
“Yessir. The official … just them coming in and making me feel like family. I’ve only known them for like two months, but it feels like five years. Everything just feels great.”
What did Alabama say? Have you informed them?
“I talked to Nick (Saban) Thursday. He was trying to get me over there to their little cookout thing. I told him I was heading up to Auburn and he respected it.”
Relationships played big roles in Thompson’s decision
What was it about Auburn?
“Just the legacy I can make. We can get back to running the SEC like the Cam Newton era when he came through. We can bring that back with the ’24 class.”
On wide receivers coach Marcus Davis…
“He played a big role. he came in and took me under his wing. He’s my guy. (Trovon) Reed, too. They’re like my uncles with the family feeling.”
Any other recruits you think might join you in Auburn’s class?
“Probably KJ (Bolden). Probably KJ. We’ve been talking a little bit. (Auburn) and another school is his top 2.”
Thoughts on QB commit Walker White…
“That’s my guy.”
Early enrollee?
“Yessir.”
Are you solid? What are the odds of you sticking with Auburn?
“100 percent. I’m done. Probably not (taking any other visits).”
Message to the fans?
“When I get on the field, we are going to change Auburn around and get them back to the way it was.”
On3 Scouting Summary of 5-star WR
Big-framed pass catcher with some of the best physical tools among receiver prospects in the 2024 cycle. Measured at 6-foot-3, 205 pounds prior to his junior season. Has high-end length for the position with a 33.5-inch arm. Runs well at his size, showing the separation skills to get vertical and beat double coverage. Tracks the ball well with the ability to locate the ball over his shoulder for high difficulty grabs. Makes plays from the outside and in the slot. Flashes good change of direction as a route-runner on Friday nights and in the 7-on-7 setting.
Thompson makes plays after the catch and as a return man. Shows competitiveness and toughness as a two-way player. Productive in a high volume role as a junior, catching 87 passes for 1,059 yards and nine touchdowns. Does not benefit from a loaded supporting cast. On the lower end of yards per catch among his highly-touted peers with 12.2 yards per reception as a junior. Has turned in some encouraging personal best track times over high school career but can continue to consistently transfer that over to the field with his play speed and the track as the times tend to vary. Still putting his tools together but has the upside to be one of the better receivers in a strong crop at the position in the 2024 cycle.
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