4-star WR impressed with first visit to Auburn

AUBURN | Auburn has a commitment from four-star wide receiver George Pickens and is looking for at least one more at the position in the 2019 class.

Fletcher (Neptune Beach, Fla.) four-star Jeremiah Payton is one of the top targets, and one of many juniors who visited Auburn for Junior Day earlier this month.

“It was my first time (at Auburn) and it definitely was a great experience,” Payton said. “I got to see what is going on at Auburn and how much they love me. The main thing (I liked) was how much they appreciate the players and the lengths they go to make sure the players are all right.”

Payton, who is 6-foot-3 and weighs 175 pounds, met with Auburn co-offensive coordinator/wide receivers coach Kodi Burns during the visit. The two already have developed a good relationship.

“Coach Burns has been by to see me twice,” Payton said. “I like him a lot. He’s young. He’s a dude I can relate to, and for him to be assistant offensive coordinator and receivers coach is definitely a major part in my decision.”

Payton also is familiar with Auburn quarterback signee Joey Gatewood. The two are from the same area in Florida.

“He’s a freak of nature,” Payton said of Gatewood. “He’s going to be something serious. I think the sky is the limit for anything he does.”

Payton has an early offer from Auburn, as well as ones from Miami, Florida, Louisville, Alabama, Arkansas and Georgia, among others.

“A number of schools are recruiting me really hard,” Payton said. “Miami, Auburn, Florida, Louisville, a lot of big schools.”

None, however, stand out to him at this time.

“I don’t have any top schools right now,” Payton said. “I’m sitting back and will make my decision whenever.”

Auburn did solidify itself as a contender after the visit.

“I liked it,” Payton said. “I liked it a lot. I’m definitely going to take into consideration when I sit down and think about it.”