2025 offensive lineman puts Auburn in the 'mix of top three'
Auburn needs offensive linemen and they need to start winning recruiting battles in East Alabama at a higher rate.
Central Phenix City's Mal Waldrep could help with both of those things. The 2025 offensive lineman visited Auburn last week with teammates wide receiver Cam Coleman and defensive back Red Morgan.
"It was a really good time," Waldrep told Auburn Daily. "I enjoyed going over there with my teammates and hanging out and talking with all the coaches. All of the coaches that were there made us feel very good and like we were a priority to them."
The coach that he spent the most time with was offensive line coach Jake Thornton. He believes they are starting to build something.
The 6-foot-5, 290-pound recruit shared, "Coach Thornton and I are starting to build a relationship with each other and I enjoy getting to talk to him and learn how he coaches and what he does."
And Thornton has made it clear to Waldrep that he wants him at Auburn.
"One of the things he tells me every time I get off the phone with him he reminds me that he is coming for me and he really wants me at Auburn and it's a great feeling knowing that the school just down the road is really interested in me," Waldrep said.
"Definitely in a mix of top three," Waldrep told Auburn Daily. "I'm still completely open but just know Auburn is high on the list."
Waldrep is starting to generate more buzz from schools all over the country. The 3-star lineman (as ranked by On3) will get more attention as more schools turn their heads to the 2025 recruiting cycle. He's recently picked up offers from Colorado, Penn State, and Florida State.
Playing at Central, Waldrep understands that he gets to go up against the best every day and he knows it will make him better.
"I love the energy my teammates put into practice, workouts, and in team meetings," Waldrep said. "I’m really enjoying Central so far and everyone here makes me feel like family. Practices are fun with amazing competition levels and I really enjoy working against our defense because they make me better every single day.
"I believe we can (win state), we are loaded with lots of talent at just about every position, it’s just up to how hard everyone wants to work."
Engage with Auburn Daily on Socials!
