Why Antonio Coleman Flipped From Alabama To Auburn
The Auburn Tigers are off to a hot start with their 2025 recruiting class. One of those prospects that's already in the fold for Hugh Freeze and his coaching staff would be defensive tackle Antonio "Big Tony" Coleman.
It's a big recruiting win for the Tigers, as he went from an Alabama commitment to being a pledge to Auburn. So why did Coleman do it?
"I definitely liked the (Auburn) campus, all the players, all the coaches, but...what made me flip from Alabama to Auburn is that Auburn needed to be built, from my perspective. Alabama is already built.
"So, I feel like it was going to be like a joy with my friends in the 2025 class; building another program."
Coleman does know some of the recruits in the 2024 and 2025 Auburn classes. He's looking forward to playing with them on the Plains.
"I know Jourdin Crawford, Cameron Coleman, and Perry Thompson."
Moving to the Auburn coaching staff, Coleman has built a relationship with defensive line coach Jeremy Garrett.
"The person that's recruiting me, coach Garrett, the defensive line coach, when we talk it's like a son and a father. Because he wants what's best for me, basically. It's a great bond."
As for Coleman's future position, multiple roles are likely.
"I definitely want to play predominantly nose (guard), but the Auburn coaches told me that I'm going to start off as a 3-technique (defensive tackle), and gradually work my way into (playing) nose (guard).
Coleman also expands on his desire to play over the center.
"That's why I like; taking on those double teams."
With one more season at Saraland (Ala.) High School before heading to Auburn, here's what Coleman believes he needs to work on the most to be prepared for the SEC.
"I definitely feel I need to get a little stronger. I feel like I can improve my pad level."
On the other side of the equation, he's what Coleman likes about his game as it is now.
"Definitely my get-off. I want to get it to the point it's immaculate, like Aaron Donald."
Overall, here's what Coleman wants Auburn fans to know he's bringing to the football program.
"Definitely I want them to know I am a student-athlete. Off the field, I work. I'm a great person to be around and I am a leader."
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