Auburn Tigers defensive end/EDGE rusher Jared Smith has reportedly bulked up in a massive way this past offseason, and is set to take a major step forward during his sophomore season with Keldric Faulk and Keyron Crawford declaring for the NFL draft. Additionally, Amaris Williams and Jamonta Waller committed to the Georgia Bulldogs and Arkansas Razorbacks, respectively, out of the transfer portal.
Blitz Sports Media's Cade Thomas called Smith "one of college football's freakiest specimens," and listed the former Thompson Warriors star as one of 10 potential breakout candidates for the SEC this coming fall.
Thomas even predicted Smith to be a future early-round draft pick over the next several years. Smith would be eligible for the 2028 NFL draft after completing three years on the Plains under, presumably, DJ Durkin for all three.
Jared Smith wanted to be in Auburn. That's why Alex Golesh wanted him back.
Smith's decision to stay at the program was one of the biggest offseason wins for Alex Golesh's coaching staff, mainly Durkin. Golesh explained what kind of player was recruited to stay at Auburn this past offseason:
Someone who the program knew was essential, and who actually wanted to be in East Central Alabama in the first place.
“I think the one thing that doesn’t change is this: You have to be able to identify the immediate roster and figure out really, really quickly who fits,” Golesh said. “And by fits, I don’t mean offensively, defensively or special teams, but truly, who wants to be there. Who’s at least got a chance to buy into what you’re doing, understanding that when you come into a situation where the success wasn’t flowing, change has to be made.”
Smith is simultaneously part of the change, while also part of keeping what worked. The Tigers' defense was No. 10 in the country, and No. 3 in the SEC, in run defense, ceding 99.3 rushing yards per game, 2.86 yards per rush, and ranking No. 2 in the country in rushing success rate. Smith, though an edge-bender by trade, has elite instincts setting the edge. He was part of what worked so well in 2025 and didn't need to be overhauled.
Thankfully, he's back to take on the leadership mantle Faulk's departure vacated.