Hugh Freeze set ambitious goals for his initial recruiting classes at Auburn, focusing particularly on the crucial 2024 and 2025 cohorts. Recognizing the significance of these classes, Freeze and his staff placed substantial emphasis on recruitment efforts. With an awareness that they were trailing in the 2024 class rankings, Freeze targeted a realistic goal of securing a top-10 position, a goal that has been achieved as Auburn’s class currently stands at No. 7.

Looking ahead to the 2025 class, Freeze’s objective is even loftier: a top-five ranking. Freeze believes that attaining these high rankings in consecutive years is integral to building a program with sustained competitiveness and a roster that consistently strives for excellence—a standard necessary for success in the conference.

As of now, Auburn finds itself positioned at No. 5 in the 2025 team recruiting rankings, a promising start with seven commitments already secured. The class kicked off in February when local Opelika defensive lineman Malik Autry committed. Autry, initially unranked, has now ascended to the No. 88 player nationally and the No. 7 defensive lineman. The defensive line additions also include Top247 nose tackle Jourdin Crawford and Composite 4-star Kalen Edwards. Jakaleb Faulk, a Top247 edge rusher with potential versatility as a linebacker, further bolsters the defense.

The offensive side of the class features Top247 safety Kendarius Reddick, along with tight end Ryan Ghea and offensive lineman Spencer Dowland. Freeze expresses optimism about the class’s trajectory, emphasizing the need to maintain their current standing and add more recruits. Acknowledging the progress made within a short timeframe, he deems a top-five ranking a reasonable expectation, with the possibility of sixth or seventh also being acceptable. The aim is to assemble competitive classes that can narrow the gap with other top programs.

Auburn’s recruitment efforts for the 2025 class include ongoing pursuits of Top247 running back Alvin Henderson, Top247 linebacker Eric Winters, and Top247 offensive tackle Tavaris Dice. Notable prospects like 5-star cornerback Na’eem Offord and elite safety Anquon Fegans, both within the top 50 recruits, remain closely monitored. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of consistently securing competitive classes to position Auburn favorably in the competitive landscape of college football recruiting.