Tigers nab another in-state football prospect

It’s still very early in the 2009 recruiting season.

But one thing is clear: Defense is a priority for Auburn’s recruiting efforts, as is making an impression on in-state prospects.

Bessemer Academy linebacker Harris Gaston, the latest player to verbally commit to Auburn, fits both criteria.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Gaston is the Tigers’ fourth verbal commitment for 2009 and the third defensive prospect to commit to AU. He joins defensive tackle Terrence Coleman, defensive end Jamontay Pilson and quarterback Raymond Cotton. All four are in-state players.

Gaston finished his junior season with 112 tackles, 11 sacks and five interceptions.

He chose AU over scholarship offers from Kentucky and Mississippi State.

“I’m excited,” he told Auburnsports.com. “It takes a lot of pressure off of your back. It means a lot.”

Gaston’s high-school teammate, wide receiver Brandon Heavens, is also a top Auburn target. Heavens, considered one of the state’s top wide receivers by Rivals.com, has scholarship offers from AU, Kentucky and Mississippi State.

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