Bearcats' Breaux commits to Duke

It’s been a whirlwind week for Ruston junior defensive end Ahmad Breaux, having taken a trip over the weekend to visit Duke University, only to return home to receive an offer from Ole Miss in the SEC Wednesday.

Breaux ended any future suspense in his recruitment Thursday morning when he announced his commitment to the Blue Devils via social media.

“Duke University has a special place deep in my heart. Growing up in Durham for my early teenage years, I’ve seen how far this program has come and I want to be a part of it,” Breaux said via Twitter Thursday. “I want to be remembered academically, as a man, and as the best player to step foot in Wallace Wade Stadium.

“Coach (Mike) Elko and Coach (Harland) Bower both have built an irreplaceable relationship with me and my family, and I feel like no other can match that,” he continued. “The fans, the culture, and this staff are the light that beaconed me, and blessed me to make this decision. With that being said, I am committed to the historic, beautiful institution known as Duke University.”

Breaux (6-4, 240) also holds offers from Louisiana Tech, Northwestern State, North Texas and Grambling State. 

His junior year was a breakout campaign for Breaux, who moved from tight end to defensive end prior to the season. He finished up with 62 tackles, 6 sacks, 6.5 tackles for loss and a pair of fumble recoveries. His best game came at an opportune time against Zachary in the Division I semifinals, when it sacked Alabama signee Eli Holstein twice.

With his profile as a football player increasing, Breaux focused in on taking advantage of what his opportunities are.

“I feel fantastic about how things are going. This process is stressful but it’s also a blessing,” Breaux said. “I wouldn’t ask for anything less. My family is proud of me, my community is behind me and my mother won’t have to every worry about paying for school and that’s what I’m happiest about.”

Breaux explained further Thursday morning what his thought process was concerning his commitment.

“The culture at Duke and the fact that no player is thought of as just a number really drove me to this decision,” he told the Leader. “On my visit, I was met with nothing but love and a system that fits me as a person and a defensive player. Coach Elko is one of the best defensive minds and a down to earth coach. He and Coach Bowers can teach me to be the best man and player I can be.”

Breaux heads into his senior campaign in 2023 as one of the cornerstones of Kyle Williams’ Bearcats defense.