Martin releases finalists, sets decision date

Austin four-star running back Asa Martin will choose Auburn, Alabama or Florida, and he’ll announce which one before his senior season begins.

Martin on Thursday released the list of his finalists, as well as his decision date, Aug. 24, Thursday on Twitter. His announcement will be held at the auditorium at Austin High School.

Martin, who is ranked the No. 7 running back in the 2018 class, has been high on Auburn and Florida since early in his recruitment. Alabama recently increased its interest and has moved into Martin’s top group.

Martin has visited each of his three finalists, including Auburn, which he last visited in mid-May. Martin also will attend Auburn’s Big Cat event on Saturday.

“Auburn has a home feeling,” Martin said in May. “I’ve been there a bunch of times. My relationships with the coaches have really grown the past couple months, and my mom’s relationships with them have grown, too. Auburn is a beautiful place with a beautiful campus.”

Martin will announce his decision between the three SEC schools a day before Austin opens the season against Walker.

As a junior, Martin, playing at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., had 49 carries for 372 yards (7.6 avg.) and four touchdowns. He also caught 17 passes for 235 yards (13.8 avg.).

Rivals ranks Martin, who stands six feet tall and weighs 190 pounds, the No. 3 overall player in Alabama and No. 127 in the Rivals250.