Wooten commits to Auburn

Chandler Wooten is Auburn's 2nd linebacker commitment in the past 7 days

KENNESAW, Ga. | Chandler Wooten’s secret no longer is a secret.

The linebacker from North Cobb in Kennesaw, Ga. announced Friday afternoon his intentions to sign with Auburn.

“I’ve known for almost a month that Auburn is where I want to go,” Wooten said. “It was a very tough decision, but I have always liked Auburn and I think it’s the best fit for me.”

Wooten committed to Auburn during a ceremony at halftime of North Cobb’s spring game. He chose the Tigers after narrowing his list of offers to Auburn, Tennessee and Florida.

“I could have gone in a lot of different directions, but Auburn felt like the best one for me,” Wooten said. “I feel comfortable at Auburn. I really like the coaches and it’s not too far from home.”

First-year linebackers coach Travis Williams is recruiting Wooten to Auburn. The two have developed a good relationship since Williams took over Auburn’s linebackers in December.

“I love Coach T-Will,” Wooten said. “He has been recruiting me hard since he started and we have always stayed in contact. He’s a great person and a great coach who I think will develop me on and off the field. I’m excited I’ll get to play for him. He’s a really good person. All of the coaches are.”

Wooten also developed relationships with area recruiter Tim Horton, defensive coordinator Kevin Steele and coach Gus Malzahn.

“I am real comfortable with all of them,” Wooten said. “I get along great with the whole staff. They are a big reason why I chose Auburn.”

So is the opportunity to play early.

“They need linebackers,” Wooten said. “I would have a good chance of going in and playing early and growing into a leader on the defense. I like what Auburn does on defense and I think it’s a perfect fit for me.”

Wooten is Auburn’s fifth commitment in the 2017 class and second linebacker. The Tigers received a commitment last Friday from Jackson-Olin (Birmingham, Ala.) linebacker Tadarian Moultry, who Wooten considers a friend.

“We talked a couple times this week,” Wooten said. “He would have been happy for me wherever I chose, but he’s excited that I’m coming to Auburn with him. I am, too.”

Rivals ranks Wooten, who stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 225 pounds, the No. 30 outside linebacker in the 2017 class and No. 41 overall player in Georgia. Wooten plans to visit Auburn for Big Cat on June 4.

“I’m ready to get to Auburn,” Wooten said. “I’m ready to be a Tiger.”

AUBURN COMMITMENTS - Class of 2017