Auburn Tigers 2025 Recruiting Class Top 3 Players
The Auburn Tigers’ 2025 recruiting class has been lauded as one of the most impressive in recent years, featuring a blend of high-caliber talent across various positions. Among the standout recruits, three players have garnered significant attention: quarterback Deuce Knight, defensive lineman Malik Autry, and edge rusher Jared Smith. Each of these athletes brings a unique skill set and potential that could significantly impact Auburn’s performance in the coming seasons.
Deuce Knight: The Dynamic Quarterback
Deuce Knight, a five-star quarterback from George County High School in Lucedale, Mississippi, stands at an imposing 6-foot-4 and weighs 210 pounds. His journey to Auburn was marked by a notable recruiting battle, as he initially committed to Notre Dame before flipping his commitment to the Tigers in October 2024. Knight’s decision to join Auburn was a significant coup for head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff, as securing a top-tier quarterback is often pivotal for a program’s success.
During his high school career, Knight showcased exceptional dual-threat capabilities. As a sophomore, he passed for 1,929 yards and 11 touchdowns, adding 488 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground. His junior year saw continued excellence with 2,047 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and an additional 494 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite missing four games in his senior season, Knight still amassed 2,082 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and rushed for 450 yards with nine touchdowns. These statistics underscore his versatility and ability to impact the game both through the air and on the ground.
Knight’s physical attributes, combined with his on-field performance, have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s elite dual-threat quarterbacks. His arm strength allows him to make deep throws with ease, while his agility and speed make him a constant threat in the running game. This dual capability forces defenses to account for multiple threats, often leading to mismatches and broken plays that Knight can exploit.
Beyond his physical tools, Knight has demonstrated a keen football intellect. He reads defenses well, makes quick decisions, and has shown poise under pressure. These intangible qualities are crucial for success at the collegiate level, where the game is faster, and the competition is more intense.
Knight’s commitment to Auburn also speaks volumes about the program’s direction under Coach Freeze. Attracting a player of Knight’s caliber indicates a positive trajectory and has the potential to influence other top recruits to consider Auburn as a destination. As Knight transitions to the collegiate level, the anticipation surrounding his development and impact on the Tigers’ offense is palpable.
Malik Autry: The Defensive Powerhouse
On the defensive side, Malik Autry emerges as a formidable addition to Auburn’s roster. Hailing from Opelika, Alabama, Autry is a four-star defensive lineman who committed to the Tigers early in the recruiting cycle, becoming the first pledge of the 2025 class in February 2023. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 280 pounds, Autry possesses the prototypical size and athleticism desired in a dominant defensive lineman.
Throughout his high school career, Autry was a disruptive force on the defensive front. His combination of size, strength, and quickness allowed him to consistently penetrate offensive lines, making plays in the backfield and applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks. His ability to play both interior and edge positions provides versatility to Auburn’s defensive schemes.
Autry’s commitment to Auburn was steadfast, despite garnering interest from other prominent programs such as Ohio State and Florida. His decision to stay close to home and represent the Tigers is a testament to his loyalty and belief in the program’s vision. As an early enrollee, Autry has the advantage of acclimating to the collegiate environment ahead of many of his peers, allowing him to participate in spring practices and begin his development under the tutelage of Auburn’s coaching staff.
The expectations for Autry are substantial. His physical attributes suggest he can be an immediate contributor, potentially filling gaps left by departing players and elevating the overall performance of the defensive unit. His presence on the line is anticipated to bolster Auburn’s run defense and enhance their pass-rushing capabilities.
Moreover, Autry’s work ethic and leadership qualities have been highlighted by his high school coaches. He is known for his relentless motor on the field and his commitment to continuous improvement. These traits not only bode well for his personal development but also set a standard for his teammates, fostering a culture of excellence within the defensive unit.
Jared Smith: The Explosive Edge Rusher
Complementing Autry on the defensive front is Jared Smith, a five-star edge rusher from Chilton County High School in Clanton, Alabama. Smith’s recruitment was a significant victory for Auburn, as he chose the Tigers over several SEC rivals, including Alabama and Georgia. His commitment further solidified Auburn’s standing as a top destination for elite defensive talent.
Smith’s high school career was marked by his explosive athleticism and disruptive playmaking abilities. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 235 pounds, he possesses a rare blend of speed and power that makes him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles. His first-step quickness allows him to gain an immediate advantage off the snap, while his strength enables him to shed blockers and pursue the quarterback relentlessly.
In his senior season, Smith recorded impressive statistics, including double-digit sacks and numerous tackles for loss. His performance earned him accolades and recognition as one of the premier defensive prospects in the nation. His ability to impact the game was not limited to pass rushing; he also demonstrated proficiency in setting the edge against the run and dropping into coverage when required.
Smith’s addition to Auburn’s defense is expected to have an immediate impact. His skill set addresses a critical need for the Tigers, providing a dynamic pass-rushing presence that can disrupt opposing offenses and create turnover opportunities. His versatility allows for creative deployment within various defensive packages
