re: Class of 2018 Recruiting MEGATHREAD: So Long Old Friend Edition

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MOULTRIE, Ga., — According to 4-star linebacker JJ Peterson of Colquitt County High, he isn’t the first one in his family to have athletic ability.

“They all had talent … and they didn’t make it,’ he said. “To me, I’ve got to make it. I tell myself, I’m not going to fail.”

Peterson, the No. 1 outside linebacker in the 247Sports Composite, is the No. 35 overall recruit in the industry generated 247Sports Composite. He’s a top Auburn target and currently lists the Tigers No. 2 behind his leader, Alabama.

In the past year, Peterson has faced life-altering challenges, including the birth of his daughter and the death of his grand-father. He lost his dad to Lupus when he was a child.

“I try to keep the grind going,” Peterson said.

At Auburn, he has found a father-like figure of sorts in linebackers coach Travis Williams, the college coach he said he is closer with more than any.

“That’s my man,” Peterson said. “He came up like I did.”

Williams’ message to Peterson?

“His message is, he wants me to come see it, chill, get a feel for it,” Peterson said. “He ain't telling me like Georgia, telling me to commit, stuff like that. I don’t like that. At all.”

According to Peterson, he plans to visit Alabama, Auburn and FSU after school gets out. Possibly Oregon, too. We’ve since confirmed the Tigers expect to have him at Big Cat Weekend on June 3.

What stands out with the Tide?

“I just like the family atmosphere and all the players,” Peterson said. “I get along with them real good. Some of them have backgrounds like me.”

Click play to hear Peterson’s full interview with the SEC Recruiting Buzz podcast on Vsporto.com.

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