Shadarius Toodle’s Recruitment: A Deep Dive into the Linebacker’s Journey and Auburn’s Pursuit
Shadarius Toodle, a standout linebacker from Cottage Hill Christian Academy in Mobile, Alabama, has been a focal point in the 2026 college football recruiting cycle. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 220 pounds, Toodle has garnered attention from numerous top-tier programs across the nation. His commitment to Auburn University in July 2024 marked a significant moment in the Tigers’ recruiting efforts. However, as the recruiting landscape evolved, so did the dynamics surrounding Toodle’s commitment.
Toodle’s journey began with an offer from Auburn in February 2024. The Tigers’ coaching staff, including defensive coordinator/linebackers coach D.J. Durkin and defensive edge coach Josh Aldridge, made concerted efforts to recruit him. Toodle’s initial visit to Auburn left a lasting impression. He described the atmosphere as welcoming, stating, “I loved it every time I came up here. I’ve been up here like four times. My family loves it. Got to talk with Coach (Hugh) Freeze, got to talk with the staff and they just made me … .”
This familial environment, combined with Auburn’s rich football tradition, played a pivotal role in his decision to commit. Toodle expressed confidence in his choice, emphasizing the program’s trajectory under Coach Hugh Freeze.
Despite his early commitment, Toodle remained a highly sought-after prospect. His impressive high school performance, including over 150 total tackles as a junior, caught the attention of several elite programs. Schools like Georgia, Florida, Michigan, and Ohio State extended offers, intensifying the competition for his services.
In response to these overtures, Toodle scheduled official visits to these programs during the spring of 2025. His itinerary included trips to Georgia on March 15, Florida on March 11, Baylor on March 22, Auburn on March 29, and Michigan on April 12.
Auburn, recognizing the challenges posed by these competing programs, intensified its recruitment efforts. Coach Hugh Freeze, despite personal health challenges, remained actively involved in Toodle’s recruitment. His dedication underscored the importance Auburn placed on securing Toodle’s commitment.
Additionally, Coach Josh Aldridge’s consistent communication with Toodle and his family highlighted the Tigers’ genuine interest in the linebacker. Toodle appreciated Aldridge’s coaching style, noting, “He’s a good person… calls me every other week and talks to me and my family.”
As the official visit dates approached, Toodle emphasized the importance of making an informed decision. He stated, “I just want to be absolutely certain when choosing college for the next 3 to 4 years.” This statement reflected his desire to ensure that his choice aligned with his academic and athletic aspirations.
Shadarius Toodle’s recruitment journey underscores the complexities of college football recruiting. While early commitments can provide a sense of security, the dynamic nature of the recruiting process means that programs must continuously engage and demonstrate their value to prospects. Auburn’s efforts to retain Toodle amidst intense competition highlight the challenges and strategies involved in securing top-tier talent. As Toodle approaches his final decision, his story serves as a testament to the intricate dance between recruits and programs in the ever-evolving world of college football recruiting.
