Ole Miss to Welcome Back Former Commit as Recruitment Heats Up

Ole Miss to Welcome Back Former Commit as Recruitment Heats Up

Ole Miss is set to host a familiar name this weekend, as four-star safety Trae Collins returns to Oxford for an unofficial visit. The talented Ridgeland (Miss.) prospect will reconnect with defensive coordinator Pete Golding and the Rebels staff as they ramp up efforts to bring him back into the fold.

Collins, who previously committed to Ole Miss Rebels, reopened his recruitment last November following Lane Kiffin’s departure. Despite backing off his pledge, he has remained in steady contact with the program and continues to view Ole Miss as a strong contender.

The 6-foot-2 defensive back holds offers from several major programs, including the Arkansas Razorbacks, Miami Hurricanes, Mississippi State Bulldogs, and Tulane Green Wave. As his recruitment gains momentum, Collins has lined up multiple visits this spring, with trips planned to schools like Michigan, Purdue, and Georgia State, along with return stops at Ole Miss and Mississippi State. He has also scheduled official visits to both SEC programs for June.

While Collins continues to evaluate his options, he’s begun to identify a core group of top schools that includes Ole Miss, Arkansas, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Michigan, and Mississippi State. Florida State Seminoles have also recently entered the mix with a new offer.

Arkansas, in particular, is emerging as a serious contender as its revamped staff makes a strong push. Meanwhile, Collins has also built a close relationship with Mississippi State defensive backs coach Kevin Thompson, adding another layer of intrigue to his decision.

With his recruitment accelerating and more visits on the horizon, Collins’ return to Oxford this weekend could play a key role in shaping where he ultimately lands.