With the start of the dead period just days away, recruits around the country will be announcing their commitment decisions. Today, 4-star defensive lineman and Auburn football target Vodney Cleveland is set to announce which program he has chosen.
From Birmingham, Alabama, Cleveland is a product of Parker High School and is ranked as the No. 8 recruit out of his home state. He is the No. 141 overall prospect and the No. 18 defensive lineman in the recruiting class of 2026.
Cleveland took five official visits this summer to Auburn, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia and Texas. Auburn football got the first official visit back in May. A former Alabama commit, Cleveland has developed a strong relationship with the defensive staff on the Plains, including defensive coordinator DJ Durkin and defensive line coach Vontrell King-Williams. Cleveland sees a good fit for himself at Auburn and believes that the staff would have the ability to develop him throughout his college career.
Today, the 4-star defensive lineman will choose between his four finalists: Auburn, Florida, Georgia and Texas. Most recruiting analysts believe the Longhorns, who hosted Cleveland for his final and most recent visit, are in the lead in his recruitment.
Still, King-Williams and the Auburn coaching staff have done well in emphasizing the importance of in-state recruiting and gave a strong argument to Cleveland for his growth on the Plains. Plus, current Auburn defensive lineman Jourdin Crawford is a former teammate of Cleveland's, and the opportunity for the pair to reunite could play a role in Cleveland's decision.