TJ Lindsey, 4-star IMG Academy DL, signs Letter of Intent with Auburn
Four-star defensive lineman TJ Lindsey of Bryant (Ark.) IMG Academy signed his National Letter of Intent with Auburn on Wednesday, the first day of the early signing period.
Position: Defensive line, strong-side defensive end
Height/Weight: 6-foot-3 / 270 pounds
Notable trait/Auburn fit: Lindsey has the body type to play as a strong side end or move down to a 3-technique on the inside. Lindsey is versatile, he’s got an elite frame, and strong athleticism.
On3 Industry Ranking: (89.60) No. 359 overall, No. 37 DL, No. 45 in Florida
Commitment date: Aug. 12, 2023
Chose Auburn over: Texas, Miami, Texas A&M
Time of enrollment: January
Notable: Lindsey chose Auburn over three schools, but Texas was the closest to landing him. In fact, after his commitment to Auburn, the Longhorns thought they had a shot to flip him. Lindsey never seemed to waver and loves his fit in the Ron Roberts defense at Auburn.
Quoteworthy: “That is the key reason I came here. The D-line, we have it good, I just don’t feel like we have enough. It’s a wear and tear on your body the whole game. You could see in the later part, we weren’t getting as much pass rush or as much pressure. That alone was a key factor in me coming here. I feel like I can come in here and compete early.”
Breakdown
**Breakdown written by Auburn Live Recruiting Analyst Cole Pinkston
— Before ever looking at Lindsey’s film, he has an SEC level frame. Actually, it is an NFL level frame. He is listed at 6-foot-3 270 pounds, but he has the frame to add more weight. Interestingly, even if he adds more weight, he can still play as a strong side end or 3-technique. He is a versatile prospect on the defensive line.
— Lindsey may be taller than his listed height at this time. Even in pictures from a year ago he looks much different as he has matured and grown into his body quickly.
— Lindsey is not ready to slide down and be an interior defensive lineman, but he can be with some training and added strength. With his size, he has excellent mobility. Lindsey can run and he can rush the passer as a defensive lineman. His size and frame would suggest he plays on the inside, but he has enough athleticism to play all over.
SEC readiness
— Lindsey should have a seamless transition to the SEC. He is matured physically and has moments of elite physicality and athleticism. Consistency will be the major test for him as a senior in high school and as a transitioning SEC defensive lineman.
