AU working for 4-star OT to be part of top OL class

AUBURN | Auburn made its message clear to Kendall Randolph on Saturday.

The Tigers have several goals for the 2017 recruiting class, and Randolph is one of them.

“They want to sign the No. 1 offensive line class in the country,” Randolph said. “And they want me to be a part of it.”

Randolph is considering it. He made the trip to Auburn last weekend for the Tigers’ first big Junior Day of the year.

“I wanted to get an overall feel for Auburn,” Randolph said. “I also wanted a chance to get better relationships with the coaches.”

Auburn’s new offensive line coach Herb Hand was No. 1 on Randolph’s list.

“I spent a lot of time with Coach Hand and he seems like a great guy,” Randolph said. “He is a real cool guy and a good coach.”

Hand also is personable.

“It seems like he builds great relationships with his players and also with the people that he recruits,” Randolph said. “He likes to get to know them.”

Randolph intends to continue developing his relationship with Hand, as well as with area recruiter Tim Horton. It’s a necessity in Randolph's recruitment. Relationships with coaches will play a big role in his decision.

Randolph doesn’t list any early favorites, but he does like Hand and Auburn.

“I don’t have any leaders,” Randolph said. “But I definitely like Auburn. I had a really good visit. I like the coaches and I plan to go back.”

Randolph, who is listed at 6-foot-5 and 270 pounds, is ranked No. 195 in the Rivals250 and the No. 6 overall player in the state. Randolph will visit Alabama for the Tide’s Junior Day on Saturday.