Auburn lands commitment from versatile Maryland safety James Branch

Auburn added another piece to its 2027 recruiting class Saturday when safety James Branch announced his commitment to the Tigers.

Auburn Undercover confirmed the commitment.

Branch, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound prospect from nationally renowned St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Md., chose Auburn over Stanford, Maryland and Virginia Tech.

The commitment continues Auburn's success recruiting one of the nation's premier high school football programs and strengthens the Tigers' growing presence in Maryland.

Branch becomes the fourth Maryland prospect committed to Auburn's 2027 class. He also joins a growing list of St. Frances products on the Tigers' roster, including Jeremiah Koger, Darrion Smith, Blake Woodby, Da'Shawn Womack, Bryce Deas and Wayne Henry.

Originally a wide receiver, Branch moved to safety and quickly emerged as one of the top defensive prospects in Maryland. Auburn projects him as a versatile defensive back capable of playing multiple positions in the secondary because of his size, range and physical style of play.

Branch is rated as a three-star prospect and one of Maryland's top players in the 2027 class.

His commitment gives first-year Auburn coach Alex Golesh another recruiting win as the Tigers continue to build momentum on the trail. Auburn's 2027 class already includes Maryland prospects Rion Jackson, James Pace III and Knyair Crumb.

Branch is expected to sign with Auburn during the early signing period in December 2026.