National Signing Day 2015: DE Byron Cowart Picks Auburn

Auburn has landed one of the top football recruits in the nation.

Defensive end Byron Cowart announced his decision to commit to the Tigers over the Florida Gators Wednesday morning. The 6-foot-4, 258 pound Cowart, from Seffner, FL is a five-star defensive lineman.

"Cowart is an athletic, physical and -- at times -- very explosive defender who should enhance his stock depending on physical development and improved awareness skills," his scouting report reads. "A player with a lot of physical tools to develop. Could be a defensive tackle candidate as well."

CBS Sports Network recruiting analyst Tom Lemming, said, "You rarely see a real muscular kid like that in high school. He plays a little stiff but he has great stats. He looks like Bryant Young with the 49ers did at his age."

"This kid really loves to play the game and I think that sometimes can be an overlooked trait in the evaluation process," ESPN national recruiting director Tom Luginbill said. "Some guys, they're living for it. I think he's that type of guy. There's a tremendous amount of drive and passion for the game. I don't think it's necessarily something that can be taught."

Cowart recorded 11 sacks during his senior year at Armwood High School. With the addition of Cowart, Auburn's defense can expect to improve.

Auburn's defense was ranked in the bottom five of the SEC in points per game, total yards allowed, passing yards allowed and rushing yards allowed, which prompted Auburn to fire defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson. They then hired Will Muschamp, the former head coach for Florida. While at Florida, Muchamp and Cowart had a strong relationship, which many believe played a factor in Cowart's decision.

Cowart made an official visit to Auburn on Jan. 16. He then made an unofficial visit to Florida the week after.

Watch Gus Malzahn and Muschamp react to Cowart's announcement: