On Monday, 2023 four-star safety Dakaari Nelson released his top six schools, including the Tigers in his list. The five other schools in the mix are Penn State, Clemson, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Oregon.
Nelson is an Alabama native standing at 6-foot-3, 203 pounds. Here is just a snippet of what 247Sports’ national recruiting analyst Cooper Petagna said about Nelson:
Three-phase player, displays above average athleticism in all phases of the game.
Positioned the majority of snaps at the safety position, also sees some time at the corner position. Flashes some good feel and instincts as a press man defender. Wins with physicality and length at the point of attack.
The Tigers will lose several of their players on the back-end of their defense when the 2022 season transpires. Several defensive backs that will likely leave are [autotag]Nehemiah Pritchett[/autotag] and [autotag]DJ James[/autotag]. Both may very well enter the 2023 NFL Draft. Auburn’s coaching staff could certainly utilize Nelson in a similar capacity if he were to choose the Tigers.
His length and athleticism are something that defensive coordinator [autotag]Jeff Schmedding[/autotag] could use. With several other upper-echelon schools in pursuit, it will be crucial for Auburn to get Nelson on campus during the summer and in the fall if they want a chance. The fact that he is an Alabama kid also helps the Tigers in this one. The coaching staff loves Nelson and would definitely welcome him as an addition to the 2023 recruiting class.