Auburn football: Holden Geriner wants Shemar James to join him on Plains

Four-star recruit Shemar James announced his top eight choices via Twitter, and the Auburn football program was included on that list. All eight are Power 5 schools, and six of the options are SEC schools.

James played high school ball at Faith Academy in Mobile, AL. In the 2020 season, James totaled 66 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, six sacks, and one interception. 247Sports lists James as the No. 11 recruit in the ATH position and the #8 recruit in the state of Alabama.

The 247 Sports Crystal Ball prediction lands James at the University of Alabama, but the site also lists his interests in both Auburn and Alabama as “warm.” James has not yet set a date for his decision, but Auburn football class of 2022 commit Holden Geriner wants to see him on The Plains.

Holden Geriner is a three-star pro-style quarterback according to 247, and he is committed to Auburn in the recruiting class of 2022. It seems Geriner may be doing a little recruiting himself, searching out future weapons for his offense.

Although Shemar James is listed as an OLB on his 247 Sports profile, his scouting report mentions in high school he played running back, wide receiver, and several defensive positions. The website reports that James was recruited by Cornelius Williams, indicating that Auburn’s interest lies in the wide receiver capabilities of James.

The recruitment of Shemar James could end up being a big win for Bryan Harsin and his staff–not only on the field but also in the state. Beating out Alabama for a top recruit would be pretty impressive for the Harsinal.

Auburn football lands in James’ top eight along with Florida State, Michigan, Georgia, Texas A&M, Florida, LSU, and Alabama. When asked about Auburn and Alabama, AL.com reported what James had to say:

"“This one means a lot,” James said. “I’m blessed to have an offer from Auburn University. It’s a great school, a great program. If I were to choose to go there, I would get to play in the Iron Bowl. That would be great.”“I told him [Gus Malzahn] I never really liked Alabama,” James said. “Most everyone I know likes Alabama because they are winning. I am just a guy who wants to be different.”"

Let’s hope James’ desire to go down the road less traveled leads him away from Tuscaloosa and directly to the Plains to suit up alongside Geriner in 2022.