4-Star Wide Receiver Messiah Hampton Reopens Recruitment, Commits to Alabama Over Auburn
In a major development in the world of college football recruiting, 4-star wide receiver Messiah Hampton has officially decommitted from a New York state school and has committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide, choosing them over fierce rival Auburn University. The announcement has sent waves through the college football recruiting scene, signaling another major win for Alabama under head coach Nick Saban.
Hampton, a highly regarded prospect, initially committed to a New York state school, but after careful consideration and discussions with his family, he decided to reopen his recruitment. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound wide receiver, known for his explosive speed and ability to make defenders miss in the open field, quickly became one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 recruiting class.
His decision to choose Alabama over Auburn comes as no surprise to recruiting analysts, as the Crimson Tide’s longstanding success under Saban has made them one of the premier programs in college football. Alabama has a history of developing wide receivers into NFL-caliber players, and Hampton is looking to follow in the footsteps of other successful Alabama wideouts, such as Jerry Jeudy, DeVonta Smith, and Jaylen Waddle.
Auburn, however, had been one of the top contenders for Hampton’s commitment throughout his recruitment process. The Tigers, led by head coach Hugh Freeze, have been rebuilding their program and have made significant strides in recent months. Despite Auburn’s efforts, Hampton ultimately chose the Crimson Tide for several key reasons, including their reputation for developing talent, the opportunity to play for a national championship contender, and the chance to be part of a storied program with a rich football tradition.
Hampton’s commitment is a huge win for Alabama, adding another talented wide receiver to their already impressive 2025 recruiting class. The Crimson Tide’s offensive scheme under coordinator Tommy Rees is expected to be a major factor in Hampton’s decision, as Rees has been known for utilizing his wide receivers in a variety of ways, giving them opportunities to thrive in both the passing and running game.
The impact of Hampton’s decision extends beyond just the football field. His commitment is expected to have a ripple effect on the recruiting landscape, particularly in the Southeast. Alabama’s continued success on the recruiting trail has made them a dominant force in college football, and Hampton’s addition further solidifies their status as a national powerhouse.
While Auburn may have fallen short in the battle for Hampton’s commitment, they are far from out of the race for other top-tier prospects. The Tigers’ recruiting efforts under Freeze have been impressive, and they will continue to be a major player in the SEC recruiting wars.
For Hampton, the journey is just beginning. With his commitment to Alabama, he will have the chance to develop under some of the best coaches in the country and play on one of the biggest stages in college football. The anticipation surrounding his arrival in Tuscaloosa is already building, and fans are eager to see what this dynamic wide receiver will bring to the table for the Crimson Tide in the years to come.
As Hampton heads into his senior year of high school, his focus will shift toward preparing for the next chapter of his football career at Alabama. But for now, he can take pride in making a decision that sets him up for a bright future with one of college football’s most elite programs.
