Auburn football has long been known for its passionate fanbase, storied traditions, and relentless pursuit of excellence on the gridiron. For elite high school recruits, a visit to the Plains is often a transformative experience—one that can shape their perception of a program and its potential to develop them as both athletes and individuals. For Valdin Sone, a four-star defensive lineman from Texas, his recent trip to Auburn left an indelible impression, particularly due to the culture fostered by head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff.
Standing at 6’3” and weighing 290 pounds, Sone is one of the most sought-after defensive line prospects in the 2025 recruiting class. With offers from powerhouse programs across the country, including Alabama, Georgia, Texas, and LSU, his recruitment has been highly competitive. Yet, after spending time at Auburn, Sone couldn’t help but rave about the atmosphere, the coaching staff, and the sense of family that permeates the program.
“The culture is amazing,” Sone said in a recent interview. “From the moment I got there, it felt like home. The coaches, the players, the fans—everyone made me feel like I was already part of the family. That’s something special.”
One of the biggest factors in Sone’s high praise was his interaction with Coach Hugh Freeze. Known for his offensive mind and ability to connect with players, Freeze has made a significant impact in a short time at Auburn, not just in terms of X’s and O’s but in building genuine relationships with recruits. Sone noted that Freeze’s authenticity stood out during their conversations.
“Coach Freeze is real,” Sone explained. “He doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear. He breaks down how he sees you fitting into the program, how they can develop you, and what it takes to succeed at the next level. He’s not just building a team; he’s building men. That really resonated with me.”
Beyond the personal connection with Freeze, Sone was equally impressed by Auburn’s defensive coaching staff, particularly defensive line coach Jeremy Garrett. A rising star in the coaching ranks, Garrett has quickly earned a reputation for his ability to develop elite defensive linemen. For Sone, who prides himself on his technique and relentless motor, the opportunity to work with Garrett was a major selling point.
“Coach Garrett knows his stuff,” Sone said. “He showed me how he works with his players, the drills they do, and how he helps them improve every single day. I can tell he’s the kind of coach who will push you to be your best but also support you every step of the way.”
The visit also gave Sone a chance to bond with current Auburn players, many of whom echoed his sentiments about the program’s culture. Hearing firsthand accounts from teammates about the work ethic, camaraderie, and expectations within the locker room only reinforced his positive impression.
“The players were all about business,” Sone said. “They talked about how hard they work, but also how close they are. It’s not just about football; it’s about brotherhood. That’s the kind of environment I want to be in.”
Of course, no Auburn visit would be complete without experiencing the gameday atmosphere at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Though his visit wasn’t during a live game, Sone got a taste of what makes Auburn’s fanbase one of the most passionate in college football. From walking through the locker room to standing on the field, he could feel the energy that defines Saturdays in the fall.
“Just being in that stadium, even when it was empty, you could feel the history,” Sone said. “The fans here are crazy in the best way. I can only imagine what it’s like when it’s packed and loud. That’s the kind of place where you want to play your heart out.”
As Sone continues to weigh his options, Auburn has undoubtedly positioned itself as a serious contender in his recruitment. The combination of strong coaching, a supportive culture, and a storied football tradition makes the Tigers an attractive destination for any recruit, especially one as talented as Sone.
For Auburn, landing a player of Sone’s caliber would be a significant win. The Tigers have been working tirelessly to bolster their defensive line, and adding a disruptive force like Sone would provide an immediate impact. His versatility—capable of playing both inside and outside—would give defensive coordinator DJ Durkin flexibility in scheming pressures and stopping the run.
But beyond the on-field potential, Sone represents something bigger for Auburn: proof that the culture Freeze is building is resonating with top-tier talent. In the competitive landscape of SEC recruiting, where every program boasts elite facilities and winning traditions, the difference often comes down to relationships and environment. Auburn’s ability to make Sone feel at home speaks volumes about the direction of the program.
As Sone wraps up his visits and moves closer to a decision, Auburn fans have reason to be optimistic. The Tigers have made a lasting impression, and if Sone’s comments are any indication, the Plains may soon be home to one of the nation’s most dominant defensive linemen.
“At the end of the day, I want to go somewhere that feels right,” Sone said. “Auburn definitely feels right. The culture, the coaches, the players—it’s all there. Now it’s just about making the best decision for my future.”
