BREAKING: Five-star player confirms commits to Auburn
Five-star player committed to Auburn on Saturday, continuing the Tigers’ hot streak on the recruiting trail, fueled by the momentum from Big Cat Weekend.
Smith, a 5-star edge rusher from Thompson (Ala.), chose Auburn over South Carolina, Florida State, Ole Miss, USC, and Georgia. Ranked highest by 247Sports as the No. 19 player, No. 2 edge rusher, and No. 2 player from Alabama, Smith is also tabbed as the No. 57 player, No. 5 edge rusher, and No. 4 player from Alabama in the 247Sports Composite rankings.
The commitment came after a strong push from defensive ends coach Josh Aldridge and head coach Hugh Freeze, who has been emphasizing winning in Alabama. “Man, it’s just the people, the culture, the atmosphere,” Smith told Auburn Undercover. “The best recruiting class right now, I’m trying to be a part of that.”
Smith is now Auburn’s highest-rated commit in the class, edging out 5-star defensive tackle Malik Autry. Auburn has been focusing on in-state talent, holding commitments from eight of the top 10 players in Alabama, with only Na’eem Offord and Zion Grady committed elsewhere.
Pictured: A young Jared Smith going against the grain.
Auburn soon. pic.twitter.com/kY3WdOo4gT
— Ainslie Lee (@ainslielee_) August 4, 2024
Auburn’s recruiting run has been impressive, securing 2025 commitments from Smith, Anquon Fegans, Blake Woodby, and flipping Antonio Coleman and Derick Smith from Alabama. With 22 commitments, Auburn maintains its No. 5 ranking in the 247Sports team recruiting rankings.
Although Auburn has been favored since Smith’s unofficial visits in June, his visit last weekend reinforced his decision. “Seeing the culture getting brought back in,” Smith said. “Coach Freeze and seeing how he’s changing the program overnight. I want to be a part of that.”
Listed at 6-foot-6.5 and 235 pounds, Smith was recruited for the buck linebacker position and is the first commit at that spot for the 2025 cycle. He is expected to be a unique pass-rusher in D.J. Durkin’s scheme.
“Oh yeah, definitely, being one-of-one and different,” Smith said. “Being that playmaker for Auburn.”
Smith’s message to the fans? “War Damn Eagle, we’re trying to get the best recruiting class in the country. We’re trying to build this class. The best class in the history of Auburn.”