Escambia County had its second defensive player in less than a week commit to play college football on Tuesday morning.

Blue Devils defensive tackle Tyler Nero verbally committed to play for the Auburn Tigers Tuesday morning giving the news to head coach Gene Chizik just before 11 a.m.

For Nero, the choice came down to feeling comfortable with coaches and players.

“I always felt at home when I visited Auburn,” Nero said. “I enjoyed being around the coaches and players when I was up there.”

Making the decision early was something that Nero knew he needed to do to secure his spot.

The chance of injury and was one reason he decided to make his decision, he said.

“It was a big decision that I knew I had to make” Nero said. “I sat back and thought about it for a long time. I knew I needed to do it now because what if something happened like a serious injury. I’d be stuck here in Atmore. Once I thought about it, I knew I needed to commit early.”

Speaking with Auburn coaches, Nero made his commitment known.

Chizik showed his enthusiasm when Nero told himt he news, Nero said.

“He was more excited than I was,” he said. “I spoke to all of the defensive coaches at Auburn and they are all really excited.”

Nero is rated a 3-star prospect by Rivals and a 4-star by Scout and 247 Sports. He made 72 tackles last season including 19 for a loss and nine sacks.