Auburn football could land this 4-star Texas A&M DL de-commit in July

Auburn football has been making inroads in the Class of 2023, and that could lead to big things when the calendar turns to July.

The Tigers are in the mix for Wylie East High School’s six-foot-five, 245-lb senior-to-be, Anthony James. James de-committed from Texas A&M on May 22nd, just days after receiving an official offer from Auburn football.

James announced his intention to commit to a school this summer ahead of his senior season. The timeline of his decision, especially considering his recent de-commitment and upcoming scheduled visits with Washington and Utah.

Could Auburn swipe a major defensive commitment from Texas’ burgeoning SEC West power?

Auburn football DL coach Jimmy Brumbaugh is heavy in his recruitment

The Tigers have new DL coach Jimmy Brumbaugh hot on the recruitment trail for the 4-star Lone Star DL as part of their ‘Tiger Takeover‘.

James explained the level of contact the two had together over the last several months:

"“I been talking to (defensive line coach Jimmy Brumbaugh) for a couple of months now. He wants the chance to develop me into an NFL player. Show what I can do inside and outside. I haven’t been (to Auburn) before.”"

Just because there is contact between the two parties, though, doesn’t mean there is a single guarantee AU will land their target. Almost always, the Tigers are battling the Alabama’s, Georgia’s, and Texas A&M’s for guys, and history tells us they lose those battles more than they win. Every Power Five program is aiming to be a feeder to the NFL for every recruit that walks through the door.

What makes James different? Well, the timing of the de-commit matches up with the positive press Bryan Harsin and co. have gotten this offseason. Keith Niebuhr, now of On3, spoke to that this past May:

"“With May’s arrival, we’re knee deep into the 2023 class recruiting cycle. And at Auburn, there is reason for optimism. Yes, really. And a lot of it…many have noticed a more engaging Harsin when it comes to recruiting and that hasn’t gone unnoticed either. Another positive: Based on our interviewing, he seems to be connecting much better with key prospects in Year 2. Again, not a bad thing.”"

Perhaps Auburn is due for more disappointment. Maybe James isn’t going to honor the progress this coaching staff has made.

Or maybe, they will nab some much-needed trench depth for a position group that is strong in 2022, but a question mark beyond that.