The Auburn football coaching staff made a solid impression on 4-star linebacker Duke Johnson, a current Alabama commit.
Over the weekend, the Auburn football program hosted several high-profile recruits, including Darrell “Duke” Johnson, a 4-star linebacker who verbally committed to Alabama in March. Despite his commitment, Johnson visited Auburn for an official visit.
Hailing from Eastman, Georgia, Johnson is ranked as the #4 linebacker in the 2025 recruiting class and the #9 prospect from Georgia. According to Auburn Rivals, Johnson had an in-depth discussion with Tigers’ defensive coordinator DJ Durkin in the film room. Johnson expressed enthusiasm about fitting into Auburn’s scheme and the potential for early playing time.
“He’s very intense with football,” Johnson said. “I like that because I’m very intense, too. I can come in with this scheme and make plays. At the ‘Mike’ … it’s easy to make plays.”
Johnson’s visit to Auburn was his last of the summer, with UCF being the only other school competing to flip his commitment. He plans to graduate in December and aims to make a final decision in October or November.
In addition to Johnson, Auburn is attempting to flip other Alabama commits. Four-star ATH Derick Smith recently took an official visit to Auburn and has developed strong connections with wide receivers coach Marcus Harris and offensive coordinator Charles Kelly. Smith is waiting to see Auburn’s performance this fall before making his decision between Alabama and Auburn.
Auburn is also pursuing defensive lineman Antonio Coleman, who initially committed to Alabama, then flipped to Auburn, and subsequently returned to his commitment to Alabama. Like Smith, Coleman plans to finalize his decision this fall.
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