Top Auburn Tigers defensive end commit says, *”I know I chose the right school.”*

In the world of college football recruiting, few decisions are as scrutinized or as impactful as a five-star prospect’s commitment. For Jared Smith, a towering 6-foot-7, 235-pound edge rusher from Thompson High School in Alabaster, Alabama, his choice to commit to the Auburn Tigers was both a personal and strategic one. As the No. 28 overall recruit in the 2025 ESPN 300 , Smith’s decision was not made lightly. Yet, in his own words, “I know I chose the right school.”

### A Local Hero with National Recognition

Smith’s journey to prominence began in his hometown of Alabaster, where he quickly became a standout at Thompson High School. His high school career was marked by impressive statistics: 89 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks in his senior season alone . These numbers not only earned him the title of Under Armour All-American but also solidified his reputation as one of the top edge rushers in the nation.

Despite receiving offers from powerhouse programs like Georgia, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Florida State, and USC , Smith felt a strong pull to stay close to home. “Why not stay in-state? Play for your people,” he remarked, emphasizing the cultural and familial ties that Auburn represented .

### The Influence of Coach Hugh Freeze

A significant factor in Smith’s decision was the vision presented by Auburn’s head coach, Hugh Freeze. Known for his dynamic offensive strategies and commitment to rebuilding Auburn into a national contender, Freeze’s approach resonated with Smith. “I see where the program is going, and I want to be a part of it,” Smith shared .

Freeze’s emphasis on developing players both on and off the field aligned with Smith’s aspirations. The prospect of contributing to a program on the rise, under the guidance of a coach with a clear and compelling vision, was a compelling draw for the young defensive end.

### The Energy of Auburn’s Campus

Smith’s commitment was further solidified during Auburn’s Big Cat Weekend, an event designed to showcase the university’s culture and football program to prospective recruits. The energy and camaraderie displayed during the event left a lasting impression on Smith. “It was cool seeing all the guys commit… Just having that energy and that culture — it’s what really stood out to me,” he recalled .

This firsthand experience allowed Smith to envision himself as part of the Auburn family, surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared his passion for the game and commitment to excellence.

### A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Smith is eager to contribute to Auburn’s defensive line, a unit that has been bolstered by recent commitments from other top-tier recruits. His versatility, including the ability to drop into coverage when needed, adds a dynamic element to Auburn’s defensive schemes .

Smith’s dedication to refining his skills is evident. He recognizes the challenges that come with transitioning to the Southeastern Conference’s level of competition but approaches them with a mindset geared toward growth and improvement. “Going to Auburn and watching film, it’s going to be on a whole different level,” he acknowledged, underscoring his readiness to elevate his game .

Jared Smith’s commitment to the Auburn Tigers is a testament to the power of personal connection, shared vision, and the allure of home. In a landscape where recruits often seek the brightest lights and the loudest fanfare, Smith’s choice reflects a deeper understanding of what truly matters: a place where he can grow, contribute, and ultimately thrive. As he embarks on this new chapter, his confidence in his decision remains unwavering. “I know I chose the right school.”

Several Auburn Tigers’ commits were on campus for official visits this past weekend. One of these commits was four-star defensive end Hezekiah Harris. He was one of the first additions to the 2026 recruiting class and has maintained his status as one of the top recruits in the class. Only four-star linebacker Shadarius Toddle was within the first few players committed and a top-rated recruit. During his latest visit, Harris felt that he had made the right decision.

“I spent most of my weekend with Coach Roc [Bellantoni], building a bond and getting [an] even closer bond — we’re already pretty close,” Harris said. “He’s just helping me out, making me the best man I can be.”