Relationships key for 4-star LB

AUBURN | Relationships with coaches will be main factors in determining where Central-Phenix City linebacker Markail Benton decides to play college ball.

That’s good news for Auburn. Benton and Tigers’ first-year linebackers coach Travis Williams have developed a strong bond.

“I’ve got a really good relationship with him,” Benton said of Williams. “He is a great guy and a coach and he gets along real well with his players.”

Williams, who played middle linebacker for Auburn’s 2004 undefeated team and later with the Atlanta Falcons, was promoted to linebackers coach in January.

“He’s a good coach because he’s been there and knows what it takes to get to the next level,” Benton said. “It’d be great to have him as my coach.”

Benton met with Williams on Saturday as a visitor for Auburn’s Junior Day. The Rivals250 linebacker also met coach Gus Malzahn and new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele.

“I really like the coaching staff,” Benton said. “I’ve gotten to know Coach Steele and he is a real cool, laid-back guy.”

The relationships Benton has developed with the coaches have Auburn among his favorites. He lists Auburn, Alabama, Florida State and Mississippi State as four of his top schools. Benton is scheduled to visit Alabama on Saturday.

A timetable for a decision hasn’t been made, but Benton thinks it will come sooner than later.

“I’ll probably make a decision pretty soon,” Benton said. “Maybe in the summer.”

Benton recorded 32 tackles, including 21 solos and five tackles-for-loss as a junior.