ESPN 150 linebacker Reuben Foster (Auburn, Ala./Auburn) announced his decision last week to decommit from Auburn, citing reports that assistant coach Trooper Taylor had been relieved of his duties as a contributing factor. The 6-foot-2, 242-pound Foster had built a strong relationship with Taylor, but now the No. 24 prospect in the country is exploring his options.

Georgia could have a head start in the battle for Foster. Bulldogs coach Mark Richt made a call to Foster earlier in the week and said he hoped to bring Foster to Athens and have a hand in mentoring the talented defensive target.

ESPN 150 safety Tray Matthews (Newnan, Ga./Newnan) has been lobbying for his close friend Foster to join him at Georgia for more than a year. On the day Foster reopened his recruitment, Bulldogs’ assistant coaches John Lilly and Kirk Oilivadotti were visiting with him at his school. Defensive coordinator Todd Grantham is expected to visit Foster this week.

Alabama, where Foster originally committed in the summer of 2011, could be a major contender as well. Auburn, LSU, Miami and Washington are also in the mix. Expect Foster to take his official visits in January.