the son of a former Auburn standout, has officially committed to the Auburn Tigers football program, delivering a boost to the team’s recruiting efforts. Smith, a defensive lineman and three-star prospect from St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Maryland, had been a longtime Tennessee commit. However, on early signing day, he made the decision to flip his commitment to Auburn, marking a significant loss for the Volunteers.

Throughout the season, Auburn’s coaching staff worked diligently to secure Smith’s pledge. He visited Auburn multiple times, signaling the Tigers’ growing influence in his recruitment. Tennessee, meanwhile, struggled to maintain its hold on Smith, despite its strong defensive line recruiting class under Coach Rodney Garner. Smith’s decision to sign with Auburn underscores the Tigers’ recruiting prowess and their ability to compete for talent within the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Smith’s de-commitment from Tennessee was a notable blow to the Volunteers, as he was one of their priority prospects leading up to early signing day. Despite this loss, Tennessee’s defensive line class remains strong, with several other talented recruits set to join their program. Coach Garner’s reputation for developing defensive linemen has helped maintain optimism within the Tennessee camp.

For Auburn, securing Smith is a significant win, especially as he follows in the footsteps of his father, a former standout for the Tigers. This legacy connection, coupled with Auburn’s persistent efforts during the recruiting process, likely played a role in influencing Smith’s decision. His addition bolsters Auburn’s defensive line and adds depth to their 2024 recruiting class.

As Smith begins his collegiate journey with Auburn, the Tigers look forward to developing his skills and incorporating him into their defensive system. His commitment represents a pivotal moment for Auburn, emphasizing their ability to attract top talent even when competing with fellow SEC programs.