Auburn signing class affected by 5-star’s late flip

AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - The future still looks bright for Auburn, but Wednesday came with one unfortunate surprise.

The Tigers’ 2019 signing class lurked in the top 10, but 5-star wide receiver George Pickens, a longtime Auburn commitment, made a last-minute switch and signed with Georgia. The Hoover HS player’s change of heart landed Auburn outside the top 10 at No. 11, according to 24/7.

Between Auburn’s nine early enrolled signees, who signed in December, and Wednesday’s 11 additions, the Tigers had two 5-star recruits, 12 4 stars and seven 3 stars, according to 24/7′s ranking system.

The Tigers’ signing class was led by linebacker Owen Pappoe of Grayson HS in Georgia and Pinson Valley HS QB Bo Nix. Both players started classes at Auburn in January.

Here’s the full list of players who signed Wednesday:

DE Charles Moore - Louisville (MS)

ATH Mark-Antony Richards - Wllington (FL)

DE Jaren Handy - Hattiesburg (MS)

OG Keiondre Jones - Callaway (GA)

ATH Jashawn Sheffield - Frederica Academy (GA)

CB Jaylin Simpson - Frederica Academy (GA)

WR Ja’Varrius Johnson - Hewitt-Trussvile (AL)

CB Nehemiah Pritchett - Jackson (AL)

OG Justin Osborne - IMG Academy (FL)

OG Kamaar Bell - Colquitt County (GA)

LB Octavius Brothers - Rockledge (FL)