# Auburn Targets Zion Elee After Maryland Coaching Change

> Auburn likely lands five-star edge rusher Zion Elee after Maryland fires coach.
- Title: Auburn Targets Zion Elee After Maryland Coaching Change
- Summary: Auburn likely lands five-star edge rusher Zion Elee after Maryland fires coach. Auburn Tigers are a top choice to sign Zion Elee, a five-star edge rusher…
- Keywords: auburn, zion elee, maryland, coaching fire, transfer portal, five-star, edge rusher, st. frances academy, da' shawn womack, sports, Targets, Zion
- Source: Auburn Tigers On SI — https://si.com/college/auburn/football/why-auburn-is-a-popular-pick-to-land-five-star-edge-rusher-after-maryland-coaching-fire
- Published: 2026-10-22T22:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: auburn, zion elee, maryland, coaching fire, transfer portal, five-star, edge rusher, st. frances academy, da' shawn womack, sports
## Auburn Prepares for Transfer Portal Move
Auburn Tigers could acquire a big-time transfer after Maryland's head coach dismissal.
## Maryland Fires Head Coach
Maryland fired head coach Mike Locksley on Wednesday, triggering potential player exodus.
## Zion Elee's Background
Zion Elee, a 2026 recruit, was rated third-best edge rusher in his class and best in-state Maryland player.
## Elee's Performance
Elee played all seven games, totaling 11 tackles, eight solo tackles, two tackles for loss, four sacks, and three forced fumbles.
## Auburn's St. Frances Connection
Auburn has recruited well from St. Frances Academy, including Bryce Deas, Blake Woodby, and Da' Shawn Womack.
## Womack and Elee's Bond
Womack, a 2023 graduate, and Elee share a high school connection and mutual understanding as five-star recruits.
## Auburn's Advantage
Auburn may leverage existing St. Frances recruit James Branch to attract Elee ahead of the 2027 season.
## Key takeaway

Auburn Tigers are a top choice to sign Zion Elee, a five-star edge rusher from Maryland, following Maryland's head coach dismissal.