Auburn football made waves early on National Signing Day by flipping three-star defensive lineman Darrion Smith from Tennessee. The Baltimore native, who had been committed to the Volunteers since July, shocked the recruiting world by pledging to the Tigers instead.
Smith’s decision underscores the momentum Auburn has built under head coach Hugh Freeze during this recruiting cycle. Known for his explosive power and quickness off the line, Smith adds much-needed depth to Auburn’s defensive front. At 6-foot-4 and 275 pounds, he possesses the versatility to line up inside or as an edge rusher, making him a valuable asset for the Tigers’ defensive scheme.
This flip comes as part of Auburn’s aggressive strategy to rebuild its roster and compete at the highest level in the SEC. Freeze and his staff worked tirelessly behind the scenes to sway Smith, showcasing Auburn’s vision for player development and the opportunity for early playing time. Smith’s recruitment also highlights the Tigers’ ability to compete with SEC rivals like Tennessee and Alabama for top talent.
Smith joins an impressive group of defensive signees for Auburn, including five-star edge Jared Smith and four-star linebacker Demarcus Riddick. Together, these recruits form the backbone of what is shaping up to be a top-10 recruiting class for 2024.
For Auburn fans, Smith’s flip is another reason to celebrate what has been an exceptional Signing Day. It also signals that Freeze’s recruiting prowess is revitalizing the program and positioning the Tigers as a formidable force in the SEC once again. As the day unfolds, all eyes will be on Auburn to see what other surprises they might deliver.
