McClain ready to sign with AU

AUBURN | Zakoby McClain isn’t an early enrollee, but that won’t keep him from signing in the early signing period.

McClain, a four-star linebacker from Valdosta, Ga., will end his recruitment on Wednesday, the first day allowed by the NCAA.

“I’m ready,” McClain said.

McClain committed to Auburn in November, choosing the Tigers over LSU and West Virginia. His relationship with Auburn linebackers coach Travis Williams was a big reason his chose Auburn. After an official visit over the weekend, it’s more than just Williams.

“I loved it,” McClain said. “I love the players, and everybody that’s committed here is cool.”

McClain met and hung out with several fellow commitments during his two-night visit. Quarterback Joey Gatewood, defensive ends Richard Jibunor and Kayode Oladele, linebacker Michael Harris and running back Asa Martin were among a large group of commitments on campus.

“We were hanging out,” McClain said.

And making plans.

“We want to win a championship,” McClain said. “We want to bring that back to Auburn.”

McClain will join Auburn’s early enrollees in the summer. In the meantime, he’ll be working to gain weight.

“I’m 200 and I want to be at 225,” McClain said. “I’m competitive, tough, physical and fast linebacker, but I want to get stronger and a little bit faster.”