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One of the first tasks new Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp tackled was visiting with four-star defensive tackle Daron Payne at his home in Birmingham, Ala.
The third-rated prospect in the state of Alabama praised the Muschamp hire over the weekend, but refuses to commit to a program just yet.
The Shades Valley star told reporters last summer he’d announce his decision in January, and that moment is quickly approaching. Payne will announce on Jan. 2 at the Under Armour All-America Game.
At 6-foot-2, 325-pounds, Payne is a force on the defensive interior. His size, strength and athleticism coupled together make Payne tough to block. Arguably the most college-ready of any uncommitted prospect around the southeast, he’s explosive in his first step, uses his hands well to beat offensive linemen and plays with great effort.
During Payne’s Shades Valley team’s playoff run this season, coaches around the state of Alabama saw just how good Payne is.
“Payne is as good as advertised,” Muscle Shoals coach Scott Bassden told AL.com earlier this month. “He’s got a good first step, real strong and holds the point real well.
“I think he can play anywhere in the interior. He’s just so strong. He has to get better at hand placement, but … he’s so quick and bends real well.”
Alabama, Auburn and Mississippi State are Payne’s top three, though it has been reported Auburn hiring Muschamp could have a big impact on his decision. Payne is expected to take an official visit to Mississippi State, though with reports today that Bulldogs defensive coordinator Geoff Collins is heading to Florida, it is unknown how that will affect Mississippi State’s chances of landing the prized recruit.
The two in-state schools are believed to be the two real contenders for the top uncommitted prospect in the state of Alabama. Auburn and Alabama’s recruiting pitches differ, though.
The Tigers are pitching immediate playing time, with a thin defensive line. Alabama is pitching long-term development coupled with the chance to be a situational player early. Payne has said he doesn’t want to redshirt, a factor that could bode well for Auburn.
Either way, Payne will take his final official visits to both Alabama and Auburn after he makes his announcement in St. Petersburg on Jan. 2.
The race in the Yellowhammer State for Payne will be very entertaining.
After living in Birmingham, Ala., Jordan left the ground zero of SEC Nation to head south to Florida to tell the unique stories of the renowned tradition of SEC football. In his free time, his mission is to find the best locales around.
