Auburn football recruiting news: Fans react as Michigan’s 4-star DL Nate Marshall flips to Auburn

By Aman Sharma

Modified Aug 23, 2024 18:33 GMT

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Four-star defensive lineman Nate Marshall has changed his commitment from Michigan to Auburn. The 6-foot-4, 265-pound standout from Illinois, who ranks as the 5th best defensive lineman and 56th overall prospect in the 2025 class (per On3), was thoroughly impressed during his visit to Auburn this summer.

Marshall initially committed to Michigan back in April, following a visit to their spring game. His flip to Auburn, however, has sent ripples through the college football community. Social media reactions from fans of both programs have been mixed.

"Bro got word that Michigan is about to get hit with the hammer," one fan said.

"How much money does Auburn have?" another fan said.

Here is how fans are expressing their reactions:

"Let’s go f**k Michigan," a fan said.

"Grab your ankles people!," another fan said.

Auburn's defensive tackles coach, Vontrell King-Williams, played a pivotal role in Marshall's recruitment. King-Williams, who shares a Chicago connection with Marshall, has been building a strong relationship with the young talent for over a year.

This bond, coupled with Auburn’s holistic approach to player development, gave the Tigers a decisive edge.

"Their commitment to players as a whole!" Marshall said, reflecting on what stood out to him about Auburn. He added, "They want to pour into players’ entirety not just as an athlete, and I think with that mindset it’ll carry over to on the field success."

With Marshall’s commitment, Auburn's 2025 recruiting class remains ranked No. 5 nationally according to 247Sports, with Marshall becoming their 23rd pledge. He joins a formidable group of defensive linemen that includes Jourdin Crawford, and Antonio Coleman, who flipped from Alabama.

Nate Marshall is now Auburn’s third-highest-rated commit. Meanwhile, Michigan’s 2025 class, currently ranked 14th nationally and 3rd in the Big Ten, will need to regroup and focus.

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Auburn strengthens 2025 class with DL Nate Marshall flip from Michigan

Nate Marshall took an official visit to Auburn this summer, making him a top priority for defensive line coach Vontrell King-Williams. During his latest visit to Auburn, he was impressed.

"It's Auburn or Michigan. I would say it's pretty close, especially after this visit," Marshall told Auburn Live.

Auburn's 2025 recruiting class has gained considerable momentum, particularly on the defensive front. Marshall joins edge rusher Jared Smith, ranked No. 43 nationally, and defensive lineman Malik Autry, ranked No. 75, as key additions to the Tigers' defensive lineup.

Nate Marshall's flip is the third major one for Auburn in the 2025 cycle, following athlete Derick Smith, ranked No. 54, who de-committed from Alabama, and running back Alvin Henderson, ranked No. 154, who flipped from Penn State.

Auburn's coaching staff, led by Hugh Freeze, is still pursuing more high-profile recruits. They have their sights set on Notre Dame quarterback commit Deuce Knight and Ohio State five-star cornerback Na’eem Offord. Additionally, five-star offensive tackle Andrew Babalola remains a top target.