In a significant boost to their 2025 recruiting class, the Auburn Tigers have secured a commitment from five-star edge rusher Jared Smith, a standout from Thompson High School in Alabaster, Alabama.mith, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 245 pounds, is celebrated for his exceptional defensive prowess and is ranked as the No. 2 overall recruit in Alabama by On3, 247Sports, and ESPN.citeturn0search0

uring his senior year under Coach Mark Freeman, Smith amassed 78 tackles, 7.5 sacks, and 20 quarterback hurries, leading Thompson High to the Class 7A state title game.is outstanding performance earned him spots in both the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star Game and the Under Armour All-American Game.citeturn0search0

mith’s decision to join Auburn was influenced by his desire to stay in-state and his confidence in the program’s direction under head coach Hugh Freeze.e remarked, “I chose Auburn because I get to stay home, because of the culture and I see the vision coach Hugh Freeze has. I see where the program is going and I want to be a part of it.”citeturn0search1

he commitment of Smith, who is ranked No. 28 in the 2025 ESPN 300, marks Auburn’s eighth pledge across the 2025 and 2026 classes since their Big Cat Weekend on July 27.e chose the Tigers over other finalists, including South Carolina, Ole Miss, Georgia, Florida State, and USC.citeturn0search3

mith’s versatility extends beyond pass rushing; he has experience dropping into coverage, adding a valuable dimension to Auburn’s defense.eflecting on his high school role, he noted, “Thompson used me dropping into coverage. Disguising defenses. So yeah, I can drop into coverage.”citeturn0search4

s he prepares to transition to collegiate football, Smith acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly in maintaining proper pad level against more formidable opponents.is commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability underscores his readiness to contribute significantly to Auburn’s defense.

mith’s commitment is a testament to Auburn’s successful in-state recruiting strategy and signals a promising future for the Tigers’ defense.ans eagerly anticipate the impact this elite edge rusher will have in the seasons to come.