In a significant move, four-star linebacker Demarcus Riddick announced that he has flipped his commitment from Georgia to Auburn, marking an enormous in-state recruiting win for Hugh Freeze and the Tigers.
Riddick, who ranks as the #46 overall prospect, the #3 player at his position, and the #5 player from the state of Alabama according to 247Sports, brings a versatile skill set that has analysts buzzing about his potential impact on the field.
247Sports national recruiting analyst, Cooper Petagna, had glowing praise for Riddick’s abilities, noting his adaptability and potential to make an impact at multiple positions:
“Positioned at the weak side linebacker position, Riddick possesses outstanding position versatility as a second level defender, showing the ability to play off ball as a pass coverage defender, in the box, off the edge as a pass rusher and sometimes even at the safety position,” Petagna wrote in his scouting report.
“Demonstrates good play speed, showing the ability to play in space and drop comfortably in coverage. Flashes excellent football instincts in both the run and the pass, displaying the ability to key and diagnose and play downhill.”
Petagna continued to highlight Riddick’s ability as an off-ball linebacker, where his athleticism and instincts shine on the field, making him one of the best pure linebacker prospects in the country.
Riddick’s unique defensive skill set has the potential for three-down value, projecting him as a multi-year Power Five starter who can contribute early on both defense and special teams.
With Riddick’s commitment, Auburn secures the highest-ranked recruit of the Hugh Freeze era, elevating the Tigers from the #38 to the #27 spot in the 247Sports team rankings.
This addition further bolsters an Auburn recruiting class which already boasts prized quarterback commit Walker White as another top-100 pledge.
However, despite losing Riddick to their in-state rival, Georgia’s recruiting class remains a force to be reckoned with, still holding the coveted #1 spot in the country.
The Bulldogs managed to secure a commitment earlier in the week from five-star linebacker Justin Williams, solidifying their position at the top of the recruiting rankings.
Riddick’s decision to switch to Auburn brings a new level of excitement and anticipation to the Tigers football program.
Are you impressed that Freeze was able to get Riddick to flip? Or do you suspect something shady might have happened?