The anticipation surrounding the early signing period for college football is building, especially for Auburn’s new head coach, Alex Golesh. With less than 24 hours to go until the signing window opens, Golesh is focused on securing a strong recruiting class, just days after being appointed to lead the Tigers. As of Tuesday evening, Auburn has 11 players committed, although this number may fluctuate as the signing period progresses. Notably, Damarcus Broughton Jr., a tight end from Florida, has recently switched his commitment from USF to Auburn, a promising development for the program.
In a strategic move to bolster recruiting efforts, Auburn has also confirmed that defensive coordinator and former interim head coach DJ Durkin will remain on staff. This decision is expected to strengthen the Tigers’ chances of retaining key players during the signing period.
Among the most crucial commits for Auburn to focus on are five standout players:
Jaquez Wilkes, a 4-star linebacker from Wadley, Alabama, is Auburn’s highest-ranked commit, sitting at No. 67 nationally according to 247Sports. Wilkes has been a pivotal figure at Wadley High School, leading his team to a state championship last year. While he has excelled as both a running back and linebacker, Auburn is targeting him specifically for the linebacker position. With Durkin as his primary recruiter, the Tigers are in a favorable position to secure his commitment.
Jase Mathews, also a 4-star prospect, is one of two wide receivers in Auburn’s current commit class. Hailing from Leakesville, Mississippi, he is recognized as the 11th-best receiver nationwide for the class of 2026. His commitment is vital, especially with competing interests from LSU and Texas A&M. Mathews is expected to wait until Friday to sign, so the Tigers will need to intensify their efforts to keep him onboard.
Wilson Zierer, a 4-star offensive lineman from Rabun Gap, Georgia, is Auburn’s sole commitment at offensive tackle, heightening his importance in the next few days. As the 315th overall player in the 2026 class and 31st-best offensive tackle, Zierer’s commitment is critical following Nikau Hepi’s decommitment. With Golesh bringing USF offensive line coach Tyler Hudanick to Auburn, there may be implications for Zierer’s recruitment.
Another key player, 4-star linebacker Shadarius Toodle, recommitted to Auburn in October after an earlier commitment to the Tigers in July 2024 and a subsequent flip to Georgia. Toodle’s commitment appears stable with Durkin’s continued presence, and his brother Shadrick, currently committed as a transfer, adds to the family connection with the program. He is ranked as the 248th player nationally and the 13th-best linebacker.
Lastly, DeShawn Spencer, a 3-star wide receiver from Saraland High School, is the newest addition to Auburn’s class. Having flipped from Duke, Spencer is also expected to sign soon. He has showcased impressive stats this season with 84 receptions for 1,584 yards and 21 touchdowns, coupled with five rushing touchdowns.
As the signing period approaches, the Tigers hope to retain their key commitments while pursuing new prospects, setting the stage for a promising future under Golesh’s leadership. With a focused strategy and committed players, Auburn aims to solidify its position in college football and build a competitive program moving forward.