5-star edge Qua Russaw says Auburn football is “a whole family”

The Tigers are still on the prowl for their first 5-star recruit of the 2023 recruiting cycle, and the Auburn football coaching staff is still fighting to earn the commitment of edge rusher Qua Russaw from Montgomery, AL.

Since arriving on the Plains in 2020, head coach Bryan Harsin emphasized backyard recruiting and keeping talent in the state of Alabama, and three of the Tigers’ four commits are from around the state. Now, the coaching staff is competing for Qua Russaw.

When it comes down to it, Auburn football is going to have to beat out two powerhouse programs to get Russaw to commit: Alabama and Georgia. And though the odds may be stacked against the Tigers, there are still things that have impressed the 5-star edge throughout his recruitment.

Russaw has remained in frequent communication with the coaching staff, especially his would-be position coach Roc Bellantoni and associate head coach Zac Etheridge. The edge described Bellantoni as a big family guy, and someone he could look up to as a role model and father figure.

According to Auburn Live, one of the things Russaw loves most about the Plains is the family atmosphere in the Auburn football program:

"“Family, basically,” Russaw said. “They’re a whole family. Everybody’s together. They’re going to fight together.”’"

Jaquavious Russaw is ranked as the #27 overall prospect and the #4 edge in the recruiting class of 2023, as well as being ranked the #6 player out of the state of Alabama. Though Auburn may not currently have the notoriety that Alabama and Georgia have, the Tigers do offer the chance for Russaw to get on the field early as the edge position is one of need for the 2023 class.

The edge likely won’t be making a decision any time soon, though he does plan on returning to the Plains this fall for a game or two.