AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn Tigers football has made a major early splash in the 2027 recruiting cycle, landing a key in-state defensive lineman in a move that has already reverberated across the SEC. The commitment adds instant momentum for new head coach Alex Golesh and signals that the Tigers are serious about rebuilding their program.
The 4-star defensive lineman is widely regarded as one of the premier prospects in Alabama, drawing attention from powerhouse programs including Alabama, Ole Miss, Texas, Ohio State, and LSU. Auburn’s ability to land this top-tier talent represents a huge recruiting victory for the program.
Coaches and analysts are already praising the strategic timing of this commitment, noting that it could help set the tone for Auburn’s future recruiting momentum. With a new coaching staff in place, the Tigers are looking to establish a culture of energy, discipline, and winning.
The star of the moment is 6-foot-4, 270-pound defensive lineman Donivan Moore, the No. 1 in-state prospect and No. 5 defensive lineman nationally in the 247Sports Composite rankings. Moore announced his commitment on social media Thursday, saying, “All glory to God. I’m staying home. War Damn Eagle.” His pledge immediately elevates Auburn’s defensive line for the future.
Moore cited the connection with Coach Golesh as a decisive factor in his choice. “Once Coach Golesh got there, I felt a different vibe and things were going the right way. I feel like it’s going to be a very special year. He’s going to get the program back to where it needs to be and how it used to be,” Moore told Yahoo Sports. The excitement surrounding this signing has Auburn fans buzzing ahead of the 2026 season.
Auburn will officially kick off the Golesh era on Sept. 5 with a neutral-site matchup against Baylor in Atlanta. After a disappointing 5–7 season that led to the firing of Hugh Freeze, Moore’s commitment represents a fresh start and a tangible sign that Auburn is ready to compete at the highest level in the SEC.