Jared Smith, a 5-star edge rusher from Thompson (Ala.), committed to Auburn on Saturday, selecting the Tigers over finalists South Carolina, Florida State, Ole Miss, USC, and Georgia. Ranked highly by 247Sports, Smith is the No. 19 overall player, the No. 2 edge rusher, and the No. 2 player from Alabama. The 247Sports Composite rankings place him as the No. 57 overall player, the No. 5 edge rusher, and the No. 4 player from Alabama.
Auburn secured Smith’s commitment thanks to a strong effort from defensive ends coach Josh Aldridge and head coach Hugh Freeze, who has made winning in Alabama a key priority.
“Man, it’s just the people,” Smith shared with Auburn Undercover. “The people, the culture, the atmosphere. With the best recruiting class right now, I want to be part of that. That’s about it.”
Smith is now Auburn’s highest-rated commit in the class, slightly ahead of 5-star defensive tackle Malik Autry. His commitment aligns with the class’s focus on targeting talent from the Yellowhammer State. According to 247Sports rankings, Auburn now holds commitments from eight of the top 10 players in Alabama. The only exceptions are Na’eem Offord and Zion Grady, who are both committed to Ohio State.
Smith’s commitment continues Auburn’s strong momentum on the recruiting trail, which includes landing 2025 commitments from Anquon Fegans, Blake Woodby, and flipping both Antonio Coleman and Derick Smith from Alabama in the past week. Auburn now has 22 commitments in the class, maintaining its No. 5 ranking in the 247Sports team recruiting rankings after Smith’s addition on Saturday.
While Auburn had been the frontrunner since Smith’s unofficial visits in June, his recent visit and spending time with the team reinforced his decision. The focus on building from within the state of Alabama also played a crucial role.
“Yes sir, just seeing the culture being restored,” Smith said. “Coach Freeze and how he’s transforming the program so quickly. I want to be a part of that.”
Standing at 6-foot-6.5 and 235 pounds, Smith was recruited for the buck linebacker position and is the first commit at that spot in the 2025 cycle. Jakaleb Faulk also offers versatility to play as either a linebacker or buck linebacker at the next level. Smith brings a unique pass-rushing ability that will be a valuable addition to D.J. Durkin’s scheme next year.
“Oh yeah, definitely. Being one-of-a-kind and different,” Smith said. “I want to be that playmaker for Auburn.”
His message to the fans?
“War Damn Eagle! We’re aiming to build the best recruiting class in the country,” Smith said. “We’re working to create the best class in Auburn history.”
