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Auburn Football: Defensive Depth Chart Projections – Safety

By Nicholas Ian Allen

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Jan 1, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive line and Auburn Tigers defensive line on the line of scrimmage during the first quarter in the 2015 Outback Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

True Freshmen Tim Irvin and Jordan Colbert

Despite the depth at the position, two true freshman safeties could make an impact in 2015.

Tim Irvin is an early enrollee from South Florida that will go through spring practice, giving him an early opportunity to impress the new coaching staff. And as AL.com’s Joel A. Erickson pointed out Monday, Irvin’s signing showed a shift in the recruiting philosophy in terms of the defensive backs targeted to join the Auburn football program under Muschamp and T-Rob.

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With Ellis Johnson leading the defense, the Tigers didn’t sign a secondary prospect shorter than 5-foot-11 in either of the previous two classes. Irvin is listed at a generous 5-foot-9, though he’s probably an inch or so shorter.

Still, despite his lack of ideal size, Irvin is a playmaker that can contribute immediately. He’ll compete for early playing time, as will the much bigger Jordan Colbert, listed at 6-foot-3, and 200 pounds.

Colbert comes in rated higher than Irvin in the 247Sports Composite – Colbert was ranked 168th overall and ninth among safeties while Irvin was listed 287th nationally and 18th among Athletes. – But Irvin has the inside track due to his early arrival.

The Griffin, Georgia native and Under Armour All-American hits like a linebacker but still has the speed needed to cover over the top. He’s got the potential to be a star, and should play often on special teams in 2015.

Next: 2015 Auburn Recruiting Class Player Profiles

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