Auburn Tigers head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff have made significant strides in recruiting for the Class of 2025, particularly within the state of Alabama. One of the program’s most successful in-state recruiting years, Auburn secured commitments from nine of the top 14 recruits in Alabama, including five of the top seven. This in-state success has helped to solidify Auburn’s place as a powerhouse in the SEC.
However, one of the quieter yet equally impressive accomplishments of Auburn’s recruiting efforts has been their growing pipeline to St. Frances Academy in Maryland. St. Frances has become an increasingly important source of talent for Auburn, with the Tigers securing commitments from four-star defensive players at every level. Cornerback Blake Woodby, defensive lineman Darrion Smith, and linebacker Bryce Deas have all pledged to Auburn, adding depth and talent to the Tigers’ defense.
Additionally, Auburn secured a commitment for the 2026 class from St. Frances safety Wayne Henry in August, continuing to build that crucial connection in the region. The Tigers are hoping these strong relationships will continue to pay dividends in future recruiting cycles, and their efforts are already paying off as they set their sights on their next big target: five-star safety Jireh Edwards.
Edwards, a highly sought-after prospect, recently announced that he will visit Auburn officially on May 16th. Ranked as the No. 2 safety in the country by Rivals, Edwards is regarded as a game-changing player with elite potential. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 205 pounds, Edwards possesses the size, speed, and athleticism to excel at the highest level. According to 247 Sports’ Director of Scouting, Andrew Givins, Edwards is a “punishing defender” with the versatility to play in a variety of roles. He has the physical attributes necessary for a college-ready player and impressed scouts with his performance in the spring before his junior year.
Auburn’s connection to Edwards could be particularly strong due to the presence of several of his former St. Frances teammates already on the Tigers’ roster. This existing bond and the team’s success in Maryland will likely help give Auburn an edge in the recruitment process. In addition to Auburn, Edwards has set official visits to Maryland (May 29), Georgia (June 6), Texas A&M (June 13), and Oregon (June 19). The Tigers will be aiming to make a strong impression during his visit, hoping that their established ties with St. Frances and the opportunity to play alongside familiar faces will persuade Edwards to join their ranks.
As Auburn continues to build its recruiting momentum, securing a commitment from a player of Edwards’ caliber would be another significant step in the Tigers’ efforts to compete at the highest levels in the SEC and on the national stage. The recruitment of players like Edwards further emphasizes Auburn’s growing reputation as a top destination for elite defensive talent. If Freeze and his staff can successfully land Edwards, it would provide a huge boost to an already impressive 2025 recruiting class and solidify Auburn’s status as a rising force in college football.
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