The Auburn Tigers make their push for one of the top defensive lineman recruits in the country
The Auburn Tigers hosted potential recruits for official visits on their campus a week ago, including defensive lineman Vodney Cleveland. Cleveland, who comes from Parker High in Birmingham, Alabama, was teammates with defensive tackle Jourdin Crawford, who signed with Auburn in the 2025 recruiting class.
Cleveland is part of the 2026 recruiting class and has attracted interest from multiple programs, currently holding 37 offers from around the country. His top five choices are the Auburn Tigers, Florida Gators, Texas Longhorns, Miami (FL) Hurricanes, and Georgia Bulldogs.
All five programs are considered ‘warm’ prospects and have scheduled official visits with Cleveland, with Auburn being the first. Miami’s visit is set for June 20. Cleveland is ranked as the 52nd-best recruit nationally, the fifth-best defensive lineman, and the fourth-best prospect from Alabama for the class of 2026.
According to Auburn Rivals, the Tigers had to work hard to regain consideration from Cleveland.
“This weekend has helped Auburn a lot,” Cleveland stated. “I would say Auburn is back in my top tier of teams. They’re aiming for that top spot now.”
During his official visit, Cleveland spent the weekend with defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin and defensive line coach Vontrell King-Williams.
“I really like Coach Durkin,” Cleveland said. “I see myself fitting well in his scheme with how he utilizes different fronts to help players succeed and make plays. He plays a significant role in that.”
This situation underscores the importance of Durkin’s extension for head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff. Over the next month and a half, more updates on Cleveland’s recruitment are expected as he continues visiting other schools. For Auburn, it’s now a matter of waiting.
Leave a Reply