Ole Miss Football, USC Trojans, Ohio State Buckeyes Surging for Nation's No. 4 EDGE

Greenwich (Conn.) four-star edge rusher Mekai Brown continues evaluating contenders in his recruitment process with Pete Golding and the Ole Miss Rebels making an immediate impact following a visit to Oxford in March.

The No. 4 rated edge in the 2027 Recruiting Cycle checked in with double-digit schools this offseason headlined by visits to see the Ole Miss Rebels, USC Trojans, Texas A&M Aggies, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, South Carolina Gamecocks, and UCLA Bruins, among several others.

But the 6-foot-6, 235-pounder out of Connecticut is beginning to form a "clearer picture" on the contenders in his recruitment - with the Ole Miss coaching staff making an impact.

“I’ve been getting out and seeing a lot of schools,” Brown told Rivals. “That’s helped me figure out what I like and what fits me. Those visits have given me a clearer picture of what each program is about.

"I’m paying attention to how the coaches are, how they develop players and the culture around the program. That’s what stands out when you’re there."

Which schools are building momentum? Ole Miss is in the race, according to Brown, with multiple heavy-hitters intensifying their pursuits.

Ole Miss Rebels Football: Mekai Brown. — Courtesy of Mekai Brown's X.

“After these visits, along with USC, Ole Miss, Texas A&M and Ohio State, I know, will get official visits. Those four schools really stand out," Brown said.

Brown's trip to Oxford gave him a solid impression of Pete Golding's philosophy and defensive scheme where he believes he could thrive.

“They broke down how they would use me and where I fit,” Brown said. “I like how they see me in their system.

“I like the energy there and how they run things,” he said. “You can tell they’re building something.”

Now, as the offseason continues, the Top-10 EDGE in America is taking his time with his recruitment amid a serious push from multiple powerhouse programs.

“I’m just looking for the place where I can develop the most and be comfortable,” he said. “I’m big on relationships with the coaches. That’s probably the biggest thing for me.

“I’m just taking my time with it,” he said. “I want to make sure I make the right decision. I’m going to keep getting back to schools and seeing everything again. That’s going to help me a lot.”

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