It was a trip down memory lane for DeMario Tolan.

Auburn recruited the LSU transfer linebacker when he was in high school and even made his top four schools. Tolan ultimately signed with LSU, but after one season in Baton Rouge, is back on the market.

He visited Auburn a day after entering the transfer portal.

"I had a great time here at Auburn," Tolan said. "I’m just really praying and thankful for everything. Just ready to make the right decision."

Tolan is essentially down to two schools — Auburn and Missouri. He's headed to Columbia tonight for a visit and a decision could come soon after. A visit to Colorado might happen, but other than that, the two SEC programs are the only contenders.

What drew Tolan back to Auburn?

"It was just the big school, the SEC schools that I really want to play for," Tolan said. "Just wanted to be myself at a big program still. I don’t want to be held down. I just want to be great, just be myself, just be a great me and be happy."

Since his last visit to Auburn, there's been an overturn in staff. He spent time getting to know members of the new staff, mostly linebackers coach Josh Aldridge and defensive coordinator Ron Roberts.

"I think they’re in a great place, just a great culture," Tolan said. "I feel like they’re gonna be a perfect fit for me and I’m just really happy for this to be my first visit."

Tolan will visit Missouri this weekend and could make his decision soon afterward.