The world of college football is abuzz with anticipation as we inch closer to the 2026 season, and Auburn's new era under head coach Alex Golesh. As we eagerly await the upcoming media days, I'm here to delve into the rankings and spotlight a player who is poised to make a significant impact: Jared Smith, the No. 9 Most Valuable Tiger.
Jared Smith, a 6-foot-6 edge rusher, is a name that sends ripples of excitement through the Auburn fanbase. Hailing from Alabaster, Alabama, Smith was a highly touted 4-star recruit in the 2025 class, ranked No. 7 at his position by 247Sports. His journey to Auburn was a hard-fought battle, with the Tigers ultimately winning over South Carolina and USC, thanks to a late push from the coaching staff.
Smith's freshman season was a glimpse into his immense potential. While he only recorded five tackles, four of those were tackles for loss, and he managed to sack the quarterback twice. His explosive plays, like forcing a fumble in the red zone against South Alabama, showcased his ability to make game-changing moments. However, his playing time was limited, and he found himself behind Chris Murray, the backup to Keyron Crawford.
What's intriguing about Smith is his rapid rise and the faith placed in him by the coaching staff. Despite limited playing time as a freshman, he has been entrusted with a starting role for the upcoming season. This is a testament to his dedication and growth, as he himself acknowledged the need to improve his practice habits and off-field development. The retention of DJ Durkin as defensive coordinator seems to have played a significant role in Smith's decision to return, along with many other young players on the defense.
The upcoming season presents a unique challenge for Smith and his fellow defensive linemen. With the departure of Auburn's top pass rushers, Keldric Faulk and Crawford, the pressure is on Smith and defensive end Da'Shawn Womack to fill their shoes. It's a tall order, but Smith's performance in spring ball, where he was named defensive MVP at A-Day, suggests he is up for the task. His consistency and playmaking abilities have earned him a spot in the top 10 most valuable players for Auburn.
What makes Smith's story even more compelling is the broader context of Auburn's defensive strategy. The team lacks proven game-wreckers on the interior, shifting the burden to the linebackers and pass rushers. This places a considerable weight on Smith's shoulders, but it's a challenge he seems ready to embrace. His growth as a leader and his commitment to consistency are crucial factors in his development.
In my opinion, Jared Smith embodies the potential for a breakout season. His physical attributes, combined with a year of experience in the system and a newfound dedication to his craft, make him a player to watch. The fact that he's being relied upon to step up and fill a critical role speaks volumes about the trust the coaching staff has in him. As we countdown to the season, keep an eye on Smith; he might just be the X-factor in Auburn's defensive equation.
