February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 9)

Auburn just landed a HUGE prospect in consensus top-overall offensive lineman Cyrus Kouandjio live on ESPNU. In addition to that, the Tigers hauled in linebacker Justin Garrett and the hard-hitting Robenson Therezie:

**

JUSTIN GARRETT, LB, Tucker, Ga.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting; Ranked as the 66th-best prospect in Georgia…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 84th-best outside linebacker in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Ted Roof and Tommy Thigpen, Justin appears to be a project linebacker that could be an immediate thumper for the special teams. He may need some seasoning, but ESPN’s analysis seems promising: “With his good motor, quickness, and pursuit habits, it’s difficult to get a [helmet] on this player. Garrett will need time to bulk up while improving his coverage skills; this may require a red-shirt year; however, once ready to play, his career should be long and productive.”

PROJECTION:  Luckily, Auburn’s linebacker depth is strong, so Justin will have an opportunity to watch and learn. Fingers crossed that Teddy Roof can turn this kid into a productive player.

**

ROBENSON THEREZIE, CB/S, Miami, Fla.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 17th-best safety in the nation; Ranked as the 37th-best prospect in Florida…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 11th-best safety in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Trooper Taylor, “Cadillac” was a lifelong Auburn fan and was given the nickname in grade school when his running back style reminded his coaches of former Tiger and current Tampa Bay Buccaneer Cadillac Williams. That little running back grew up to become a spine-rattling safety that is now one of the brightest spots of a tremendous 2011 recruiting class for the Tigers. In his senior season at Miami Jackson High School, he amassed 81 tackles and forced nine – NINE! – fumbles. The Tigers won a national championship lacking productive defensive backs and now Cadillac prepares to take the campus by storm.

PROJECTION: Show-stealer? All-SEC selection? Fan favorite? Check yes to all of them. Cadillac is about to bring the noise.

**

CYRUS KOUANDJIO, OT, Hyattsville, Md.

EVALUATIONS: Five-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the top-overall offensive tackle and fourth-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the top-overall prospect in Maryland…Five-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the top-overall offensive tackle and third-best prospect in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jeff Grimes and Trooper Taylor, Cyrus is a giant at offensive tackle, the consensus top offensive lineman in the nation. A bright kid, Cyrus has the smarts, along with the talent, to start immediately for the Tigers. Having announced live on ESPNU, he spurned Alabama (where his brother is an offensive lineman) to sign with Auburn. ESPN’s description of Cyrus is something in which to get excited: “Kouandjio is a dominant run-blocker with excellent athleticism that is very rare at his size coming out of high school…we feel he has the size [6’7”-325 lbs.], athleticism, explosion, and playing strength to step in and become an immediate starter at the major level of competition.”

PROJECTION: Immediate star and, since he spurned the Tide to get to Auburn, an immediate fan favorite. Jeff Grimes has a new offensive line cornerstone.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

12:14pm  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2sy-Zp
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 8)

The countdown is now underway for Cyrus Kouandjio’s announcement at noon eastern on ESPNU and ESPN3.com, but right now the Tigers are putting the finishing touches on a great all-around 2011 class:

**

KEYMIYA HARRELL, DE, Plantersville, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 27th-best weak-side defensive end in the nation; Ranked at the 18th-best prospect in Alabama…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 39th-best defensive end in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tracy Rocker and Jay Boulware, Keymiya is one athletic big guy with a lot of promise. His 6’5”-235 lb. frame is something to be excited about, but it’s his 4.66 40-yard dash time that should raise a few more eyeballs than it has. Keeping with the Auburn tradition of jet-fast defensive ends, Ted Roof now has himself a player in the mold of a Stanley McClover and/or Quentin Groves. ESPN suggests that he’s raw as a defender, but certainly agile. He was also a standout on the basketball court, where he averaged a double-double in his junior and senior seasons at Dallas County High School.

PROJECTION: There’s always a place for a half-decent defensive end at Auburn (heck, Michael Goggans was a difference-maker against both Alabama and Oregon). It might take some seasoning before Keymiya sheds that “raw” tag, but Tracy Rocker is just the coach to expedite the process. A speedy defensive end suiting up for the Tigers? Yeah, he’ll pan out.

**

ANTHONY SWAIN, LB/S, Gadsden, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 24th-best safety in the nation; Ranked as the 11th-best prospect in Alabama…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 25th-best safety in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tommy Thigpen, Anthony could play safety or linebacker for the Tigers. His ESPN analysis doesn’t exactly exude potential, as he’s described as a player who “does not show mirroring or stemming skill-set…could get challenged as a space defender…shows some wasted motion opening to turn and run…needs to play with more hip-sink.” Though Coaches Thigpen and Ted Roof are up to the task of polishing a rock and finding a gem, it might not even come to fruition.  Anthony has had some academic questions linger that might delay or halt his entrance to Auburn.

PROJECTION: I hate to be crass, but it is doubtful that Anthony will see the field for the Tigers. He capitalized on an early scholarship offer, but that might be all for his association. If he doesn’t make it to campus, the best is wished for the young man. If he does, the spit shine process begins.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

11:14am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2sve4Z
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 7)

It’s fitting that on the seventh update (“7” being the retired number of former Heisman-winning quarterback Pat Sullivan) that Auburn’s top quarterback target, Kiehl Frazier, is now officially a Tiger. Let the man-crush on Frazier commence:

**

KIEHL FRAZIER, QB, Springdale, Ark.

EVALUATIONS:  Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the fifth-best dual-threat quarterback and 89th-best prospect in the country; Ranked as the top-overall prospect in Arkansas…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the second-best quarterback and 47th-best prospect in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Gus Malzahn, Kiehl has successfully quarterbacked Malzahn’s spread offense at Shiloh Christian School to three state championships. Don’t let the Arkansas tag fool you: Kiehl is more Cam Newton than Kodi Burns. He threw for 2,975 yards and rushed for 1,164 more during his senior year. And if there’s any doubt that the kid is “All In,” he’s been infatuated with Auburn since the Gene Chizik regime took over. The only concern, per ESPN, is the level of competition that he played against in high school. I’m not too worried though. A winner at any level is a winner, and if the coaching staff had any doubt, they wouldn’t have made him one of their initial scholarship offers for the 2011 class. The folk hero stories (the come-from-behind win in the state championship his junior year is already a part of Arkansas high school lore) are already piling up. While Cam Newton leaves Auburn a legend, he wasn’t the quarterback Malzahn had in mind to run his offense. Kiehl is.

PROJECTION:  He’ll battle Barrett Trotter for starting honors immediately. Regardless of whether or not he’s the starter in 2011, he’s the future of the Auburn offense. And when he does take over? Hello, Heisman.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

10:29am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2stWew
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 6)

Three more letters have just been faxed. With the addition of Christian Westerman to go along with fellow signees Shon Coleman, Reese Dismukes, Thomas O’Reilly, and Greg Robinson, Auburn is building what appears to be the best incoming offensive line crop in the country.

Here are the newbies, in the order in which they signed:

**

JABRIAN NILES, DE, Mobile, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 31st-best strong-side defensive end in the nation; Ranked as the 13th-best prospect in Alabama…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 19th-best defensive end in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tracy Rocker and Curtis Luper, JaBrian is a proto-typical “power end” utilized in the Auburn defense.  Perhaps, misevaluated, Auburn beat out Alabama and Southern Cal for the Mobile native, meaning he was coveted by three big-time programs. ESPN suggests that he doesn’t have great straight-line speed, but is “a solid tackler and has a good motor,” and “a solid end prospect who can be productive versus the run and pass.” In other words, JaBrian is a pretty solid player coming to Auburn.

PROJECTION: Nosa Eguae needs a back-up at the power end position right now and it might as well be JaBrian. The opportunity for instant rotation time is there if he wants it.

**

SAMMIE COATES, WR, Leroy, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 71st-best wide receiver in the nation; Ranked as the 21st-best prospect in Alabama…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 74th-best wide receiver in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Phillip Lolley, Sammie switched his commitment from Southern Miss to the Tigers where he joins his former quarterback Clint Moseley. Sammie’s silhouette (6’3”-180 lbs.) resembles that of former Alabama wide receiver Julio Jones. From a skill standpoint, Sammie just might be underrated as a pass-catcher: he was a stand-out in Auburn’s Senior Mini Camp in the summer, where he earned the scholarship offer; furthermore, he had a terrific senior season that saw his Leroy High School team win the Class 2A state championship in Alabama. He was the MVP of the championship game, capping off the season with 1,170-yards receiving.

PROJECTION: Heck, Darvin Adams was a sleeper. If Sammie can realize his immense potential, he’ll be a stalwart in Auburn’s spread offense.

**

CHRISTIAN WESTERMAN, OT, Chandler, Ariz.

EVALUATIONS:  Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the third-best offensive tackle and 27th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the top-overall prospect in Arizona…Five-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the second-best offensive tackle and sixth-best prospect in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jeff Grimes, Christian was a big-time get for the Tigers for two reasons. For starters, Christian is an outstanding tackle that could vie for a starting spot immediately. Second, Auburn snookered the mighty Texas Longhorns (always a recruiting power among prospects in the Southwest) for his services. Now, Grimes, the offensive line coach, gets a punishing prospect to coach up. And, not to step on Grimes’s toes, but fellow signees Reese Dismukes and Thomas O’Reilly should be credited with bring Christian to The Plains; the fellow offensive linemen built a strong friendship when they played together at the Under Armour game in Tampa.

PROJECTION: He’s a warrior for sure. In two or three years, Auburn’s offensive line is going to be STACKED and Christian will be a key reason why. With the proper development, this kid could also be a star on Sundays.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

10:17am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2ss-Bf
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 5)

Some more letters of intent, including that of brand-spankin’ new commitment Jermaine Whitehead, have been sent to the Auburn football office. Here’s the low-down on the new Tigers:

**

CHRIS LANDRUM, LB, Sweet Water, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 48th-best outside linebacker in the nation; Ranked as the 21st-best prospect in Alabama…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 105th-best outside linebacker in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jay Boulware, Chris is a sleeper at linebacker, thanks in part to his high school playing 1A ball. Despite the low level of play, Chris made the best out of the situation: his Sweet Water High School team captured the 1A state title his senior year as he picked up MVP honors in the championship game after he scored a rushing touchdown, registered seven tackles, and recovered a fumble. If he can add some weight to his 6’2”-215 lb. build, he could end up becoming a menacing linebacker on The Plains.

PROJECTION: I think there’s more potential with Landrum than most people realize. He’s capable of distributing some big hits, which in the very least, earns a guy playing time. I believe we’re looking at a potential starter.

**

GREG ROBINSON, OG, Thibodaux, La.

EVALUATIONS:  Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the second-best offensive guard in and 90th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the sixth-best prospect in Louisiana…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 10th-best offensive guard in the nation…2011 U.S. Army All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jeff Grimes and Trooper Taylor, Greg is the second Thibodaux High School product to join the Tigers in as many years (wide receiver Trovon Reed signed with Auburn in 2010). Rivals suggests that Greg brings to mind former Virginia standout and current New York Jet D’Brickashaw Ferguson, meaning that Greg, in all his 6’5”-300 lb. glory, would be better suited to play offensive tackle. His versatility between both the guard and tackle positions makes him a valuable pick-up. ESPN contends that he should red-shirt “to develop and polish his playing skills,” but Rivals says “there is a very good chance he could compete for playing time as a freshman because he already has the size, athletic ability, and toughness needed.” It should be noted that he spurned the ESPN-sponsored Under Armour game and instead played in the Rivals-sponsored Army game.

PROJECTION: Greg is going to be a star for the Tigers. Get used to him pummeling defensive linemen for the next four years.

**

JERMAINE WHITEHEAD, CB, Greenwood, Miss.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 24th-best cornerback in the nation; Ranked as the eighth-best prospect in Mississippi…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 27th-best “athlete” in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Trooper Taylor, Jermaine was publicly committed to Mississippi State until today. Thing is, Jermaine, who sports one of the best flattops since Will Smith’s Fresh Prince of Bel-Air days, always wanted to be a part of the Auburn Family. The flaking of fellow defensive back Marcus Roberson (who signed with Florida this morning) allowed him to earn a committable offer to The Plains. Now he is “All In” and joins an exciting defensive back class to boot. He’s terrific all-around athlete on the football field, registering 61 tackles and four interceptions (two of which were returned for touchdowns) and 805 rushing yards and six touchdowns for Amanda Elzy High School.

PROJECTION: Depth is always needed when you’re fielding defensive backs in the SEC. Along with a bevy of recruits, T’Sharvan Bell, Mike McNeil, Demetruce McNeal, Chris Davis, and – gulp! – Neiko Thorpe will create a deep crop of cover men. If Jermaine stands out in fall practice, he’ll play immediately and has the potential and the want-to to be a standout.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

9:46am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2srkcA
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 4)

War Eagle, guys and gals! We’ve reeled in our first whale of the day in highly-touted safety Erique Florence from Valley, Ala. Florence just declared for Auburn in front of a massive crowd at Valley High School, live on ESPNU and ESPN3.com.

He immediately signed a letter of intent. Get to know him right here:

**

ERIQUE FLORENCE, S, Valley, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the third-best safety and 69th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the second-best prospect in Alabama…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the fourth-best safety and 52nd-best prospect in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tommy Thigpen, Erique waited until signing day to make his pledge to Auburn official. Though he waited until the eleventh hour, this kid was “All In” from the get-go; he recruited other prospects and set up an official visit to Alabama, only to cancel on the Tide so that he could attend Auburn’s national championship celebration. Orange and blue quirkiness aside, Erique is a player. He was an all-state selection as a sophomore, junior, and senior, and was described by ESPN as having “prototypical strong safety measurable as well as demeanor…this kid is a hitter and one of the more tough and physical safeties in 2011…a very good football player.”

PROJECTION: A legend on the Auburn field and the Auburn campus. Also being one of Auburn’s more delightfully eccentric players (and a Jungle Cat favorite), Erique will be a superstar for the Tigers.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

9:09am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2sqPsS
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 3)

We’re officially in countdown mode for the Erique Florence announcement live on ESPNU and ESPN3.com at 9:05am eastern, but in the meantime, three more players have faxed in their letters of intent:

**

BRANDON FULSE, TE; Fort Meade, Fla.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 10th-best tight end and 162nd-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the 29th-best prospect in Florida…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the fifth-best tight end and 94th-best prospect in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Trooper Taylor and Jeff Grimes, Brandon is a natural successor to Philip Lutzkenkirchen at the tight end-style h-back spot. At 6’4”-250, Brandon has the size needed to succeed as a tight end in the SEC and is skilled at catching and run/pass blocking. He isn’t exactly elusive, but his after-the-catch mannerisms will remind Auburn fans of former running back Brandon Jacobs. Auburn didn’t necessarily need a tight end, but Brandon is a luxury pick-up that a national championship program can surely enjoy.

PROJECTION: Brandon will back up Lutzenkirchen immediately and will take over the starting spot upon Big Lutz’s graduation in two years.

**

ANGELO BLACKSON, DT; Bear, Del.

EVALUATIONS:  Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 31st-best defensive tackle in the nation; Ranked as the second-best prospect in Delaware…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 14th-best defensive tackle in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tommy Thigpen, Angelo is considered a sleeper, mainly because Delaware isn’t known as a football hotbed. There’s no getting around the fact that Angelo has size: the 6’5”-300 lb. warrior could be a mauler on the defensive line. ESPN’s analysis of him suggests that he’ll be a project for D-line coach Tracy Rocker, suggesting he “…needs to develop a pass rush arsenal and be sure to have a plan. Blackson is a big kid with upside. He will need to keep developing his game and adjust to a likely big jump in competition, but could be a handful with some work.”

PROJECTION: Didn’t Rivals once consider Nick Fairley to be a three-star prospect? It sounds as if this kid just needed a program that would be patient in his development. Auburn and Coach Rocker will maximize Angelo’s potential.

**

DEVAUNTE SIGLER, DE/LB; Mobile, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 64th-best outside linebacker in the nation; Ranked as the 23rd-best prospect in Alabama…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 46th-best defensive end in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tracy Rocker and Curtis Luper, Devaunte (as one can surmise from the DE/LB designation) is this year’s requisite hybrid. His 4.67 second 40-yard dash time, coupled with his flexible position play screams “PASS RUSHER,” perfect for the quick end spot. Not only that, but Auburn fans should place their faith behind the coaching staff when it comes to all things Devaunte because it’s this kid that made highly coveted defensive end recruit Ray Drew (who is slated to sign with Georgia) expendable in the eyes of the staff.  Three stars be damned, there are some high hopes for this prospect.

PROJECTION: Devaunte will now be compared to Ray Drew for the rest of his collegiate career. Not only will he feel the need to out-perform Drew, I think Devaunte crushes it as an Auburn Tiger, either as a defensive end or an outside linebacker.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

8:54am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2sptmD
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 2)

Four letters of intent have already been faxed in to the Auburn football offices, kicked off by tight end C.J. Uzomah. Here’s the early crop of signees, in the order in which they signed:

**

C.J. UZOMAH, QB/TE; Suwanee, Ga.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 20th-best tight end in the nation; Ranked as the 23rd-best prospect in Georgia…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 36th-best “athlete” in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Ted Roof, C.J. is a 6’5”-230 lb. Cam Newton clone (except with a questionable mini ‘fro) who the coaching staff were swooning about early in the recruiting process. C.J. played quarterback at North Gwinnett High School and was a 5A All-State selection, but he projects as a tight end and wildcat formation quarterback for the Tigers. ESPN suggests that he could be successful as this slot, saying, “as an overall athlete, we really like this kid as a “flex” TE or h-back as he is extremely athletic…he runs very well and he is elusive and quick especially when you consider his size.”

PROJECTION: Normally I like to pinpoint particular transfer targets in each recruiting class. C.J. is one of those targets due to being a player that will likely never be an outright starter for the Tigers, BUT with the threat of the wildcat looming since the departure of Newton, C.J. could be an invaluable piece of the Gus Malzahn offense for years to come. Here’s hoping it works out.

**

TRE MASON, RB; Lake Worth, Fla.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 14th-best running back and 199th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the 32nd-best prospect in Florida…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 21st-best running back in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Curtis Luper, Tre is most likely the Plan D at running back after Mike Blakely (Florida), Isaiah Crowell (Georgia), and Dee Hart (Alabama) decided to sign elsewhere. Do NOT mistake his being the fourth option as a testament to his level of talent. Here’s all the evidence you need: Exhibit A) Tre played 6A ball in Florida and rushed for over 1,600 yards his senior season; Exhibit B) He is a punishing back at only 5’9”-185 and “flashes great perimeter speed” (ESPN’s words, not mine), meaning he’ll be a more durable version of Onterio McCalebb; Exhibit C) He’s talented enough to spell Michael Dyer as an every-down back (McCalebb is not an every-down back); and Exhibit D) While it’s fantastic to have him on board, it allows Auburn to swing for the fences in running back recruiting for 2012.

PROJECTION: There has been some rumors as to whether or not he qualifies (he appears to be an intelligent interview, but that’s not always telling of one’s actual intelligence). If he makes it to campus, put him second on the depth chart behind Dyer, firmly cemented in the running back rotation. He’s (hopefully) a more capable back than Mario Fannin, the back he would be replacing and more durable than McCalebb.

**

KRIS FROST, WR/LB; Matthews, N.C.

EVALUATIONS: Five-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the second-best “athlete” and 20th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the third-best prospect in North Carolina…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 28th-best “athlete” in the nation…2011 U.S. Army All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tommy Thigpen, Kris’s recruitment was perhaps the biggest hiccup. Originally, it was perceived that his commitment to Auburn came as a “safety net” selection following Rich Rodriguez’s firing at his top choice, Michigan. Frost contends that he’s an Auburn man ready to play whichever position is needed (he is adept at receiver, linebacker, and safety). An athlete of his caliber only comes around once in a few years. That, mixed with his desire to prove Auburn correct in accepting his commitment could make for a show-stopping concoction.

PROJECTION: Kris will play defense for the Tigers and fulfill his potential as being a havoc-maker on the field. If made a linebacker, expect a more athletic version of Craig Stevens with a ball-hawking instinct.

**

JAYLON DENSON, WR; Hoover, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 24th-best wide receiver and 205th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the fifth-best prospect in Alabama…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 86th-best wide receiver in the nation.

GRITTY: Recruited by to Auburn by Trooper Taylor, Jaylon is the best thing to come out of Hoover since Two-a-Days (kidding, obviously, but I miss Repete Smith). Though Rivals and ESPN differs greatly on the assessment of Jaylon, ESPN acknowledges that he is a “raw, talented athlete and a major sleeper on the recruiting trail…sliding through the cracks due to his ‘tweener status.” True, with a 6’3”-190 lbs. body, he is bigger than an average wide receiver and smaller than an average tight end; however, Auburn was able to put bulk on Terrell Zachery and turn him into a more-than-viable second option the last two seasons.

PROJECTION: If he can haul in passes like he did in high school (1,183 receiving yards his senior year at Hoover), Gus Malzahn and co. can find a place for him in the offense, ‘tweener status be damned.  Even with the size, he boasts a 4.5 second 40-yard dash time, which is “burner” pace. Jaylon, given the chance, could be electric for the Auburn Tigers.

**

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

 The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

8:23am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2sotsI
February 2, 2011
Signing Day Live! (Part 1)

Welcome to National Signing Day. Furthermore, welcome to National Signing Day after an Auburn National Championship. Today, every Auburn fan will be taken on a ride that could include more highs than lows. Followers of recruiting realize that is not always the case as Auburn has experienced several Signing Days in recent memory that were filled with doom (i.e. in 2008 when the Tigers were finalists for several top recruits, including the soon-to-be NFL star Robert Quinn who signed with North Carolina) and filled with great amount of optimism (i.e. last year, which netted a whopping 32 signees, 30 of which qualified and made it to campus for the start of the 2010 football season).

Last year included two All-SEC Freshman Team selections in running back Mike Dyer and defensive end Corey Lemonier, offensive tackle Brandon Mosley, linebacker Jake Holland, defensive tackle Jeffrey Whitaker, and defensive backs Demetruce McNeal and Chris Davis – all of whom saw action during the National Championship Game – and Cam Newton, this year’s Heisman Trophy winner who leaves Auburn an icon after only one season.

Four players have already made it to campus after graduating from high school in December and enrolling at Auburn for the spring semester. The Jungle Cat is happy to introduce you to the new blood:

**

SHON COLEMAN, OT; Olive Branch, Miss.

EVALUATIONS: (All evaluations are from 2009) Five-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the nation’s third-best offensive tackle and 22nd-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the top-overall prospect in Mississippi…Three-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the nation’s 31st-best offensive tackle…2010 U.S. Army All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jeff Grimes and Trooper Taylor, “Big Shon” was diagnosed with leukemia last summer and did not enroll in school after signing last year. His fall was spent watching Auburn from afar while receiving chemotherapy. It now appears that Big Shon is on the road to recovery as he enrolled at Auburn for the Spring 2011 semester. The best-case scenario for Shon would include adding weight to his massive 6’7”-285 lb. frame that has likely seen some atrophy as a result of the chemotherapy sessions. Realizing his enormous potential on the football field will be a giant task, but his effort in fighting for his health has been nothing short of heroic.

PROJECTION: We want him to be 100 percent healthy. Anything on top of that is icing on the cake.

**

REESE DISMUKES, C/OG; Spanish Fort, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the top-overall center and 79th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the seventh-best prospect in Alabama…Four-star recruit on ESPN prospect and ranked as the top-overall center and 56th-best prospect in the nation…2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jeff Grimes and Curtis Luper, Reese might prove to be one of the biggest free spirits to walk into the Auburn locker room since Antoine Nolan. A personable guy and an inevitable fan favorite, Reese is an intelligent workhorse on the football field that ESPN hails as “a smart player with the tools to make all the necessary run blocks at the [college] level” and “handles the shotgun snap very well.” Graduating early and enrolling for the spring semester will allow him to participate in the Tigers’ Spring Practice session, which is fantastic considering the graduation of All-SEC center Ryan Pugh.

PROJECTION: If he isn’t moved to the guard spot, he will be a freshman starter. Reese is primed for an accolade-filled career on The Plains.

**

THOMAS O’REILLY, OG; Marietta, Ga.

EVALUATIONS: Three-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the 43rd-best offensive guard in the nation; Ranked as the 35th-best prospect in Georgia…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the eighth-best offensive guard and 145th-best prospect in the nation; 2011 Under Armour All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Jeff Grimes and Ted Roof, Thomas is another early enrollee, which improves his chances of immediate playing time on a offensive line depleted because of graduation. Already a 300-pounder, Thomas has the frame and, according to ESPN, the footwork to be a quality lineman; however, his Pope High School offense operated a run-oriented offense, meaning that there will be a little bit (not much) of lag time familiarizing himself with Gus Malzahn’s spread attack. There has been some talk of Thomas having some off-the-field character issues that need to be corrected.

PROJECTION: We don’t yet know if Thomas has the ability and intangibles needed to be a standout lineman in the SEC, but it is doubtful that he was signed for the sole-purpose of being a game changer. Thomas is depth; no more, no less.

**

JONATHAN ROSE, S/CB; Leeds, Ala.

EVALUATIONS: Four-star prospect on Rivals Recruiting and ranked as the seventh-best safety and 112th-best prospect in the nation; Ranked as the second-best prospect in Alabama…Four-star prospect on ESPN and ranked as the 11th-best cornerback in the nation…2011 U.S. Army All-American Game Participant.

GRITTY: Recruited to Auburn by Tommy Thigpen and Phillip Lolley, “Johnny Roses” as The Jungle Cat will, from now on, affectionately refer to him, is one of about five newbies expected to join Auburn that is crazy versatile (he can play both defensive back positions and is a quality receiver). His ability to defend the jump ball is a big reason why ESPN sees him as a cornerback. Off the field, Johnny Roses is a pied piper, hustling to recruit a few top prospects (and soon-to-be Auburn Tigers) so that he could be surrounded a stud class upon his arrival.

PROJECTION: Go ahead and place him in the defensive back rotation during spring practice and let him figure it out from there. Johnny Roses will be a playmaker and has the potential to be a locker room leader and the emotional presence on the back four, filling the void left by Zac Etheridge’s graduation.

**

Today, several Auburn targets will announce live on ESPNU (or ESPN3.com). Valley, Ala.’s Erique Florence will make his pledge at 9:05am eastern between Auburn and Southern Cal, Cyrus Kouandjio, a top offensive tackle, will decide between Auburn and Alabama at noon eastern, and Columbus, Ga.’s Gabe Wright will declare between Auburn, Tennessee, and a host of others at 1:05pm eastern.

Updates will continue today as letters of intent become confirmed. Keep checking back throughout the day.

The Jungle Cat is an online magazine dedicated to Auburn Tigers Football, written by David Smith.

6:58am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2smPlf
January 17, 2011
“Smoove” headed to the league: Darvin Adams is making himself eligible for the NFL Draft, where, hopefully, he is far more appreciated than he was during his time at Auburn. 

“Smoove” headed to the league: Darvin Adams is making himself eligible for the NFL Draft, where, hopefully, he is far more appreciated than he was during his time at Auburn. 

11:41am  |   URL: http://tmblr.co/ZkI_Hy2cgKgI