AU really up there
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AUBURN, Ala. | Dooly County (Ga.) Rivals100 defensive end Antonneous Clayton sees an opportunity for early playing time at Auburn.
It was hard for him not to notice the potential future vacancy at his position Saturday while watching the Tigers practice.
Clayton, ranked the No. 1 weakside defensive end, was highly impressed by 2013's No. 1 weakside defensive end, Carl Lawson. Clayton believes Auburn's redshirt sophomore won't stick around to be a junior.
"He's that guy," Clayton said. "I think he will go in the first round this year, and that would give me a chance to come and try and fill that spot."
Clayton, 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, is certainly considering it. He's visited Auburn several times and plans to return several more. He's also developed relationships with lead recruiter Scott Fountain, defensive line coach Rodney Garner, defensive coordinator Will Muschamp and coach Gus Malzahn.
He spoke to each of them on Saturday. It culminated a good day for the d-end.
"The whole visit was amazing," Clayton said. "I got a chance to meet with all of the coaches, and I also got to see what an actual college practice is like."
Watching practice was one of the highlights of Clayton's day. It was both an informative and educational experience.
"The tempo is intense and I learned a lot," Clayton said. "Just from watching Coach Garner coach the defensive linemen and then watching Coach Muschamp coach some of the linebackers. It was great."
Clayton doesn't currently list any favorites, but plans to release a top 10 soon. Auburn will make the cut.
"Auburn is up there, really up there," Clayton said. "I like the community, and I also the relationships between the players and the coaches. It's more like father-son than employer-employee."
Clayton hasn't set any of his official visits, but will after narrowing his options.
"I'm definitely coming back to Auburn," he said. "I'll probably make an official visit."
Rivals ranks Clayton the No. 42 overall player in 2016 and No. 5 in the state of Florida.
Clayton's Junior Highlights
