Auburn’s Rising Star: 5-Star Edge Rusher Jared Smith Discusses His Commitment to the Tigers

In a thrilling development for Auburn Tigers football, one of the top recruits in the country has officially committed to the program. Jared Smith, a 5-star defensive end from Alabaster, Alabama, has solidified his place in Auburn’s recruiting class, bringing a wealth of promise and anticipation for the future. Widely regarded as one of the top edge rushers in the nation, Smith is not only a standout on the field but also a player whose leadership and dedication are sure to make a significant impact on the Tigers’ defense.

A National Talent

Smith’s commitment to Auburn is a victory that resonates throughout the college football world. Ranked as the No. 2 edge rusher in the country by 247Sports, Smith’s impressive high school career at Thompson High School has turned heads across the nation. He was honored as a 2024 Under Armour All-American, an accolade that highlights his elite talent. In addition to his Under Armour Game recognition, Smith was a pivotal player in leading Thompson High to an Alabama 7A state championship, helping solidify his reputation as one of the most feared defensive players in the state of Alabama.

At 6-foot-6 and 240 pounds, Smith’s physicality and ability to disrupt offenses are undeniable. During his senior season, Smith recorded an impressive 89 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks. His prowess at getting to the quarterback has made him a household name among football fans and college coaches alike, and it’s clear why Auburn’s coaching staff sees him as a future star in their defensive line.

“Causing Havoc Off the Edge”

One of the most defining aspects of Smith’s game is his ability to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks. When asked about his strengths as a player, Smith wasted no time in explaining his approach to the game. “Causing havoc off the edge, that’s what I feel like is my specialty,” he said confidently during a media day interview. This emphasis on relentless pass-rushing and disrupting the opposing offense aligns perfectly with Auburn’s defensive scheme under head coach Hugh Freeze, who values a strong, attacking defense.

Smith’s partnership with Auburn defensive line coach Vontrell King-Williams will be crucial as the two look to develop his skills further. The focus on getting after the quarterback at all levels is an essential part of Auburn’s defensive strategy, and Smith’s ability to execute that vision makes him an ideal fit for the Tigers. “Just getting after the quarterback at all levels,” Smith explained, indicating his commitment to dominating the edge.

Smith’s physicality and skill set have already earned him accolades from his peers and coaches. His ability to cause chaos on the field has translated into numerous big plays for Thompson High School, and it’s something that he hopes to continue at the collegiate level. With the talent and tenacity Smith possesses, Auburn fans are understandably excited about the potential impact he will have on the defensive side of the ball.

The Next Level: Preparing for SEC Football

Despite his remarkable high school career, Smith is quick to acknowledge that the next step in his journey will present new challenges. Playing in the SEC, widely regarded as one of the most competitive and demanding football conferences in the country, will require him to elevate his game to a whole new level. “Going to Auburn and watching film, it’s going to be on a whole different level,” Smith admitted. His recognition of the need for constant improvement shows maturity beyond his years.

One area Smith knows he must focus on is improving his pad level. He explained that maintaining proper pad level and staying low is crucial for success at the collegiate level, especially when facing bigger, stronger offensive linemen. “Pad level is going to be key,” Smith said, acknowledging that this fundamental aspect of defensive line play is something he continues to work on.

Smith’s attention to detail and willingness to learn further demonstrates his commitment to becoming the best player he can be. As he prepares for the jump to Auburn, Smith understands that his work off the field—studying film, refining techniques, and mastering the mental aspects of the game—will be just as important as his physical preparation.

Versatility: A Key Asset for Auburn

While Smith is undoubtedly known for his ability to rush the passer, he also brings an element of versatility to Auburn’s defense. In the modern game of football, defenders who can do more than one thing are highly valuable, and Smith’s ability to drop into coverage is a major asset that could give Auburn’s defensive coordinator, Ron Roberts, some flexibility in how he uses Smith.

“I can drop into coverage,” Smith shared with a smile, revealing that Thompson High School frequently utilized him in pass coverage situations. “Thompson used me dropping into coverage. Disguising defenses. So yeah, I can drop into coverage.” This versatility allows Smith to contribute to both the pass rush and the overall defensive scheme in multiple ways, further making him an appealing prospect for Auburn.

His ability to play in space and cover receivers or tight ends out of the backfield will provide Roberts with additional tactical options, making Smith a potential mismatch for opposing offenses. His ability to excel in both pass-rushing and coverage is something that could set him apart at Auburn and make him an even more dangerous asset on the field.

Looking Ahead: The Under Armour All-America Game

Auburn fans won’t have to wait long to see Smith in action again. On January 2, 2025, Smith will take part in the prestigious Under Armour All-America Game, an annual event that showcases the top high school football talent in the nation. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN at 4 p.m. EST, and fans can tune in to see Smith compete against some of the best young athletes in the country.

Smith’s performance in the All-America Game will be an opportunity for him to showcase his skills on a national stage and further solidify his reputation as one of the top players in the nation. For Auburn fans, it will be an exciting preview of the kind of player they can expect to see lining up for the Tigers next season.

As the next chapter of Smith’s football career begins, it’s clear that the future is bright for both him and the Auburn Tigers. With his blend of size, speed, and skill, Smith is poised to be a key figure in Auburn’s defense for years to come. Fans and analysts alike will be watching eagerly as he takes the field for the Tigers, ready to leave his mark on SEC football.

For now, Jared Smith remains focused on what lies ahead—developing his craft, adapting to the next level of competition, and, above all, contributing to Auburn’s success on the gridiron. It’s safe to say that with his talent and work ethic, Jared Smith is a player to watch as the Auburn Tigers continue to build a championship-caliber defense for the future.