Auburn football landed a significant signing day flip on Wednesday morning, securing three-star defensive lineman Darrion Smith from Baltimore, Maryland. Smith had been committed to Tennessee since July 30 but chose to change his pledge to Auburn, marking the Tigers’ first signing day flip of the cycle.

Smith’s commitment to Auburn comes on the heels of a notable loss for the Tigers. Just one day earlier, four-star defensive lineman Nate Marshall flipped from Auburn to Michigan. However, the addition of Smith helps bolster Auburn’s defensive line group, which is shaping up to be a strong unit.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 265 pounds, Smith is ranked as the No. 601 player nationally and the 17th-best prospect in Maryland, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. In addition to offers from Auburn and Tennessee, Smith attracted interest from programs such as Colorado, Indiana, and LSU.

Overall, he received 24 offers during his recruitment, showcasing his potential as a defensive line prospect.

Smith’s addition enhances Auburn’s depth and talent in the trenches. Assuming no further roster changes, he joins a robust group of defensive linemen, including Quientrail Jamison-Travis, Joe Frazier Jr., Malik Blocton, TJ Lindsey, Zykeivous Walker, Keldric Faulk, Darron Reed Jr., and Amaris Williams. The Tigers’ incoming class also features standout recruits like five-star Malik Autry and four-stars Jourdin Crawford and Antonio Coleman.

This signing underscores Auburn’s commitment to strengthening its defensive line under head coach Hugh Freeze. Smith brings versatility and athleticism to the Tigers’ front, further solidifying a unit critical to the team’s success in the highly competitive SEC.

Smith’s flip demonstrates Auburn’s ability to make late recruiting moves, even against formidable competition like Tennessee. As signing day continues, the Tigers remain focused on assembling a roster capable of contending at the highest level.