Auburn Sitting “Very High” on the List of 2026 4-Star Safety Nassir McCoyAuburn’s football program is making a strong impression on one of the top defensive prospects in the country, 2026 4-star safety Nassir McCoy. The standout defensive back from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has made it clear that the Auburn Tigers are sitting “very high” on his list of potential college destinations. McCoy’s recent comments have only further solidified Auburn’s position in what is expected to be a highly competitive recruiting process for the talented safety.
McCoy, who is already considered one of the best defensive players in the 2026 class, has earned a reputation for his versatility, football IQ, and ability to make plays all over the field. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 185 pounds, McCoy possesses the physical attributes to excel at the college level. He’s known for his range in coverage, ability to read the quarterback’s eyes, and his ball-hawking skills that allow him to create turnovers. His skill set has earned him scholarship offers from some of the top programs in college football, but Auburn appears to be a serious contender for his services.
Auburn’s Early Advantage
One of the primary reasons Auburn is so high on McCoy’s list is the relationship he has developed with the coaching staff, particularly with the Tigers’ defensive backs coach Zac Etheridge. Etheridge has made a strong impression on McCoy by showing a genuine interest in his development both on and off the field.
“I’ve been in touch with Coach Etheridge a lot, and he’s been great throughout the recruiting process,” McCoy said. “He’s been really honest with me about my potential and how I could fit into their defense. That’s something I really appreciate.”
McCoy also mentioned how much he values Auburn’s defensive philosophy, which emphasizes creating turnovers, playing aggressive football, and developing players for the next level. “I like the way they coach their defense,” McCoy said. “It’s aggressive, it’s physical, and they play with a lot of heart. I feel like I can really grow in that kind of system.”
The combination of a strong coaching relationship, an exciting defensive philosophy, and the opportunity to play in the SEC makes Auburn an attractive option for McCoy. The Tigers’ defensive reputation, coupled with their commitment to developing talent, has made them stand out in McCoy’s recruitment.
McCoy’s Recruitment Gaining Momentum
While Auburn sits at the top of McCoy’s list, several other programs are actively pursuing the talented safety. Schools like Alabama, Georgia, and Florida State are also in the mix, and McCoy’s recruitment is expected to be one of the most high-profile races in the 2026 cycle. As one of the top players in the class, McCoy will likely be courted by numerous schools, and his eventual decision will have a significant impact on the college football landscape.
However, McCoy remains focused on finding the right fit for him—not just in terms of football, but also in terms of the overall experience. “It’s not just about football for me,” McCoy said. “I want to find a place where I can grow as a player, as a person, and where I feel like I’m part of a family. Auburn definitely feels like that kind of place.”
What’s Next for McCoy
McCoy’s recruitment is still in its early stages, and he is continuing to evaluate all of his options. However, with Auburn sitting so high on his list, the Tigers are expected to be a major player as McCoy moves closer to making a decision. He has already made visits to Auburn and has been impressed with the atmosphere on campus, the facilities, and the fan support for the team.
As McCoy’s recruitment continues, he will likely take more visits and continue building relationships with coaching staffs across the country. But for now, Auburn has positioned itself as one of the leading contenders for the dynamic safety’s commitment.
With his talent, work ethic, and leadership, Nassir McCoy is a player who can change the trajectory of a defense, and Auburn is doing everything it can to ensure it lands him as part of its future plans. For Auburn fans, McCoy’s comments about the Tigers sitting “very high” on his list are certainly a reason for optimism as they look toward the 2026 recruiting cycle.