re: Class of 2016 Recruiting MEGATHREAD: Waiting On Demetris Robertson Edition

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Auburn likes Leeds quarterback TaDarryl Marshall at cornerback

Auburn isn't the first program to show interest in Leeds standout TaDarryl Marshall, but Saturday's offer from the Tigers is unique.

They are the first to offer the 6-foot, 175-pounder as a defensive back, a position he hasn't even practiced at since ninth grade, as opposed to quarterback.

During his unofficial visit, Marshall spoke with defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson and defensive coordinator Will Muschamp about playing in the secondary before receiving the offer from head coach Gus Malzahn.

"T-Rob started bringing up clips of my highlight tape off the top of his head, and that caught my attention," Marshall said. "He said I have great change of directions and the leadership he's looking for and basically said it's everything he wants in a cornerback. Muschamp said the same thing T-Rob did about where they wanted me."

Marshall was surprised, but said he has no positional preference at the next level. His father, a former receiver at Samford, was present during the visit and has played a key role in his son's training and development.

"This was new to us," Marshall said. "My dad and the coaches got to talking and he said we don't know where to start. Muschamp said before I attend camp he'll stay with me the whole day. With me not having a quarterback coach, I wasn't feeling the quarterback thing, so this offer at cornerback is relieving but stressful on my dad's part. He has to look at more stuff to train me on. But it really doesn't matter where I play in college."


Marshall doesn't have a leader, but said Auburn is "up there." He is also considering Alabama, Georgia Tech and Samford. Tennessee and Kentucky are interested as well, and he plans to visit Knoxville March 7 before heading to Lexington March 14.

The Crimson Tide offered last month, a sign Nick Saban could be targeting more dual-threat quarterbacks given the success Blake Sims brought to the offense in 2014. Saban told Marshall he can't make a commitment until he evaluates him more, but Malzahn told him he can commit any time he wants.

Marshall, however, does not currently have a time frame for a decision.

"Not right now," he said. "For me it might be National Signing Day, but it might be before. I really don't know."

Marshall racked up 1,376 rushing yards and 1,252 passing yards for Leeds last season, leading the Green Wave to victory over Deshler in the Class 4A state championship. He is ranked as a three-star prospect and the nation's No. 37 athlete in the 247Sports Composite.

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