Auburn Tigers Officially Make Final Cut for Coveted Four-Star Linebacker Prospect as Recruiting Battle Nears Critical Stage

The Auburn Tigers have taken another significant step in bolstering their defensive future, officially being named a finalist for one of the nation’s premier linebacker prospects. Four-star recruit Malik Autry, considered among the most dynamic defensive players in the 2025 class, has included Auburn in his list of final schools as his recruitment process inches closer to a decision.

This development marks a positive shift for head coach Hugh Freeze and the Tigers, as they look to continue reshaping the program with elite talent. Auburn’s inclusion in Autry’s shortlist underscores the program’s growing reputation on the recruiting trail and signals Freeze’s defensive staff making a real impact on high-profile targets.

Autry, a 6-foot-2, 225-pound linebacker from Buford, Georgia, is rated as one of the top-10 linebackers nationally by multiple recruiting outlets. His combination of athleticism, football IQ, and sideline-to-sideline playmaking has made him a coveted target for powerhouse programs across the country. His finalist list includes Auburn, Georgia, Alabama, and Clemson—four schools with rich defensive traditions and reputations for producing NFL-ready linebackers.

For Auburn, making it this far in the process is particularly significant given the fierce competition in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the ongoing rebuilding efforts under Freeze’s leadership. The Tigers have prioritized landing more speed, physicality, and versatility on defense, especially in the linebacker corps, which has traditionally been the backbone of Auburn’s most successful teams.

Autry’s interest in Auburn is no surprise to those following his recruitment closely. He has made multiple visits to the Plains over the past year, including unofficial visits during spring practices and game days. His most recent visit for Auburn’s annual A-Day spring game reportedly left a strong impression, with the Tigers showcasing their defensive schemes and culture under new defensive coordinator Charles Kelly.

Sources close to Autry’s recruitment say the linebacker has built a strong relationship with Auburn’s coaching staff, particularly linebackers coach Josh Aldridge, who has been instrumental in Auburn’s aggressive push to land top defensive talent in the 2025 cycle. Aldridge’s reputation for developing players and his straightforward approach to recruitment have resonated with Autry and his family.

“He loves the energy at Auburn,” one source close to the family shared. “The coaches have been honest with him about where they see him fitting in, and they’ve shown how he can be part of turning the defense into one of the SEC’s best again.”

That vision is appealing to Autry, who has often spoken about wanting to play in a system that maximizes his versatility. Known for his ability to rush the passer, drop into coverage, and make plays in space, Autry has drawn comparisons to some of the SEC’s most versatile linebackers in recent memory.

Auburn’s defensive needs align perfectly with what Autry brings to the table. In recent seasons, the Tigers have struggled with consistency at the linebacker position, often lacking the depth and athleticism to contend with the SEC’s fast-paced offenses. While there have been bright spots, including standout performances from returning veterans, the program has emphasized the need for impact players who can change games with their speed and instincts.

Landing a player of Autry’s caliber would be a statement for Freeze’s 2025 class and further solidify Auburn’s efforts to close the gap with top-tier programs like Georgia and Alabama, both of whom are also finalists for the linebacker. Notably, Auburn faces stiff competition in this recruitment, with the Bulldogs leveraging their recent national championships and proximity to Autry’s hometown, while Alabama continues to recruit at an elite level under new head coach Kalen DeBoer.

Clemson’s presence as a finalist also adds intrigue, with Dabo Swinney’s program known for developing defensive stars and maintaining one of the nation’s most consistent linebacker groups. Still, Auburn’s momentum on the recruiting trail has been undeniable in recent months, with the Tigers already securing commitments from several blue-chip defensive prospects.

One factor working in Auburn’s favor is the program’s recent improvements in facilities and player development resources. The completion of the state-of-the-art Woltosz Football Performance Center has been a game-changer for recruiting, offering prospects like Autry a glimpse into the Tigers’ long-term vision. The modern facilities, coupled with Freeze’s energetic recruiting approach, have reignited enthusiasm among Auburn fans and recruits alike.

Another advantage is the opportunity for early playing time. While Auburn’s linebacker room boasts talent, there remains a clear path for a player like Autry to make an immediate impact. Freeze and his staff have been transparent about the potential for freshmen to earn significant roles, especially those with the physical tools and football acumen that Autry possesses.

Autry’s timeline for a decision remains fluid, but sources indicate he hopes to make a commitment before the start of his senior season at Buford High School. His upcoming official visits to each finalist program will likely play a decisive role in shaping his final choice. Auburn is expected to host him for an official visit later this month, providing one last opportunity for the Tigers to solidify their pitch and showcase the family atmosphere Freeze often emphasizes.

Beyond the immediate recruiting implications, Autry’s potential commitment would symbolize a broader statement about Auburn’s defensive resurgence. For years, the Tigers built their identity on tough, aggressive, and fundamentally sound defense. Under Freeze and Kelly, the program is intent on returning to those roots, with a focus on adding speed, physicality, and versatility at every level of the defense.

Auburn’s recent recruiting classes have reflected that philosophy, but landing Autry would represent one of the biggest victories to date in the Freeze era. Not only would the Tigers be securing an elite linebacker, but they would also be beating out national championship contenders in head-to-head recruiting battles—something essential for Auburn to reestablish itself among the SEC’s elite.

For Autry, the decision will ultimately come down to comfort, fit, and his long-term goals. He has expressed a desire to play in a system that prepares him for the next level, compete for championships, and be part of a close-knit locker room. Auburn checks many of those boxes, but the competition is formidable.

Still, Auburn fans have reason for optimism. Freeze and his staff have shown they can compete for top talent, and the Tigers’ trajectory continues to trend upward. With Autry now officially listing Auburn as a finalist, the program has earned a spot at the table for one of the most important recruiting battles of the 2025 cycle.

As the recruitment process reaches its critical final stages, all eyes will be on Autry’s next moves. His commitment could reshape Auburn’s defensive future and send a clear message: the Tigers are ready to fight for elite prospects and reclaim their place among the SEC’s top programs.

For now, the ball remains in Autry’s court, but Auburn has made its case—and in doing so, taken a significant step toward building a defense that can compete with the best in college football.