PINELLAS PARK, Fla. – Auburn received its 13th commitment in the 2017 recruiting class when four-star running back Devan Barrett chose the Tigers over Tennessee, North Carolina and Florida during a televised announcement at the Bright House Sports Network Studios on Thursday.
Barrett, who attends Tampa Catholic High School, is ranked as the 18th running back in the nation and the No. 240 prospect overall, according to 247 Sports Composite rankings.
The signing continues Auburn’s strong presence in the Tampa Bay area behind the recruiting efforts of running backs coach Tim Horton.
Last year the Tigers signed wide receiver Nate Craig-Myers (Tampa Catholic) and defensive back Jayvaughn Myers (Dade City Pasco) from the area. Two years ago defensive end Byron Cowart (Seffner Armwood) and wide receiver Ryan Davis (St. Petersburg Lakewood) signed to become Tigers.
Barrett (6-1, 190 pounds) has visited Auburn three times since the spring, including trips in June and July. He had a breakthrough season as a junior when he rushed for nearly 1,900 yards and 21 touchdowns.
He expects to get an opportunity to play running back at Auburn. Other schools, including Florida are recruiting Barrett as an athlete.
With the commitment Auburn’s class is projected to move into the Top 15 in the composite rankings.
Corey Long is a freelance writer for SaturdayDownSouth.com. Follow Corey on Twitter @CoreyLong.
