Auburn Tigers Rise to the Top of the AP Poll, and CJ Johnson Returns to Auburn Football in an Unexpected Way
In a dramatic turn of events that has captivated college football fans across the nation, the Auburn Tigers have claimed the top spot in the latest Associated Press (AP) Poll, marking a significant achievement for the storied program. But the excitement doesn’t end there—perhaps even more surprising is the return of former Auburn football star, CJ Johnson, to the Tigers’ program in a role that no one saw coming.
For Auburn fans, this news represents a massive shift in momentum for a program that has been steadily climbing back into national relevance under head coach Hugh Freeze. The Tigers have been on a tear through the early portion of the 2025 season, knocking off top-ranked teams and asserting themselves as one of the premier football programs in the country. But it’s the unexpected return of Johnson, a fan favorite and one of the most electrifying players in Auburn history, that is truly setting the stage for a historic season.
Auburn Tigers Ascend to the Top of the AP Poll
It’s been a long road back to the top for Auburn, a program that has seen its share of ups and downs in recent years. Under former head coach Bryan Harsin, the Tigers struggled to maintain consistency in the competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). But the hire of Hugh Freeze in 2023 has revitalized the program, and his leadership has quickly translated into success on the field.
The Tigers’ rise to the top of the AP Poll is a testament to Freeze’s vision and his ability to instill confidence in his players. Auburn has always been known for its physical brand of football, but Freeze has added a new dimension to the Tigers’ offense, blending high-powered passing schemes with their traditional, hard-nosed running attack. The result has been a highly effective offense that can beat opponents in a variety of ways.
Quarterback commit Brad McCormick has been at the helm of Auburn’s rise, playing the most efficient football of his young career. McCormick, who transferred to Auburn from a smaller program with limited exposure, has shown the maturity and poise necessary to thrive in the SEC. His ability to make accurate throws, read defenses, and manage the game has been a key factor in Auburn’s success this season. He has been supported by an incredible receiving corps and a talented offensive line that has allowed the Tigers to control the tempo of games.
On the defensive side of the ball, Auburn has been just as impressive. The Tigers’ defense is fast, physical, and relentless, anchored by one of the top defensive lines in the country. Led by defensive coordinator Ron Roberts, Auburn’s defense has been suffocating opposing offenses, creating turnovers, applying pressure to quarterbacks, and stopping the run with authority. The defensive unit has been key in Auburn’s victories over top-ranked teams, allowing them to take control of games and close out tough victories.
The culmination of all of this has led to Auburn’s rise to the No. 1 spot in the AP Poll, marking the Tigers’ first appearance at the top since their 2013 national championship appearance. It’s a well-deserved honor for a program that has been working tirelessly to return to prominence.
CJ Johnson’s Unlikely Return to Auburn Football
While the rise of Auburn to the top of the AP Poll has been exciting in its own right, the unexpected return of CJ Johnson has taken the excitement surrounding the program to new heights. Johnson, who was one of Auburn’s most dynamic and beloved players during his time with the team, made waves when it was announced that he would be rejoining the Tigers—but not in the capacity that anyone anticipated.
For context, CJ Johnson was a standout wide receiver for Auburn from 2019 to 2022. Known for his incredible speed, hands, and playmaking ability, Johnson was a key contributor to Auburn’s offensive success during his tenure with the team. In his final year, Johnson led the team in receiving yards and touchdowns, showcasing his elite skills and potential for the next level.
After declaring for the NFL Draft following the 2022 season, Johnson had hoped to continue his football career at the professional level. However, despite being highly regarded as one of the top receivers in the SEC, Johnson went undrafted. He spent time on practice squads for a few NFL teams but never made a lasting impact in the professional ranks. As his dreams of an NFL career seemed to stall, Johnson began contemplating his future.
While many expected Johnson to transition into a career outside of football, Auburn fans were shocked to hear that the former wide receiver would be returning to the program in an unexpected role. Instead of returning as a player, Johnson has rejoined Auburn football as a special assistant to head coach Hugh Freeze, a role that will allow him to contribute to the team’s success in a unique and influential way.
A New Role for CJ Johnson
CJ Johnson’s return to Auburn football is more than just a feel-good story—it’s a strategic move that has the potential to pay massive dividends for the Tigers. Johnson’s decision to come back to the program as a special assistant allows him to bring his knowledge of the game, his passion for Auburn, and his connection to the players into a new capacity.
As a special assistant, Johnson will work closely with Coach Freeze and the offensive staff, helping to identify new ways to develop and mentor players. Johnson’s firsthand experience as one of the top receivers in the SEC provides him with a valuable perspective that will allow him to help Auburn’s wide receivers and offensive playmakers grow in ways that can elevate the entire team.
Additionally, Johnson’s role will include mentoring younger players who may be struggling to adjust to the physical and mental demands of the SEC. Having been through the ups and downs of college football, Johnson is well-positioned to provide guidance to the next generation of Auburn football players, especially those in the receiver room who may look up to him as a mentor.
While Johnson’s primary responsibilities will involve coaching and player development, his presence in the locker room and on the practice field will undoubtedly have a positive impact on team morale. Johnson’s passion for Auburn is unmatched, and his infectious energy and leadership are sure to inspire the Tigers as they pursue a national championship in 2025.
In many ways, Johnson’s return reflects Auburn’s commitment to building a strong, cohesive program that values both player development and tradition. Coach Freeze has emphasized the importance of creating an environment where players not only excel on the field but also grow as individuals. With Johnson’s experience, leadership, and knowledge of the Auburn football culture, he will undoubtedly play an instrumental role in helping the Tigers achieve their goals.
The Impact on Auburn’s Offensive Identity
While CJ Johnson’s role as a special assistant is primarily focused on player development and coaching, his return will also have a broader impact on Auburn’s offensive identity. Johnson’s playing style—quick, dynamic, and explosive—was a key part of what made Auburn’s offense so successful during his playing days, and his presence on the sidelines will help ensure that the Tigers maintain that identity moving forward.
Auburn has always been a team that relies on its ability to move the ball both on the ground and through the air, and with Johnson’s insight, the Tigers’ offensive game plans are likely to be even more dynamic and innovative. With a quarterback like Brad McCormick running the offense, the addition of Johnson to the coaching staff gives Auburn the chance to develop an even more potent passing attack that can take advantage of the talent in their receiving corps.
Moreover, Johnson’s knowledge of the SEC and its defenses gives him a unique ability to help Auburn’s offensive staff anticipate what opposing teams will bring to the table. With his understanding of the intricacies of SEC defenses and how to attack them, Johnson will be a key asset in game planning and preparing the offense for some of the toughest matchups on their schedule.
Auburn has always been known for its physicality and commitment to running the football, but with Johnson’s influence, the Tigers are likely to expand their passing game and become even more unpredictable. The combination of a strong running game, an effective passing attack, and a dominant defense could make Auburn one of the most complete teams in college football in 2025.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
With the Auburn Tigers currently sitting at the top of the AP Poll, expectations are higher than they have been in years. The Tigers are poised for a strong run at the SEC Championship and a potential College Football Playoff berth, and the return of CJ Johnson is sure to play a significant role in their success.
As Auburn continues its ascent to the top of college football, Johnson’s contributions—both on the field as a mentor and off the field as a special assistant—will help guide the Tigers through the rigors of the SEC and beyond. With a talented roster, a capable coaching staff, and the energy and leadership of Johnson, Auburn is in a prime position to make a deep run in 2025.
For Auburn fans, the combination of the team’s success and the unexpected return of one of their all-time greats has created an electric atmosphere around the program. The Tigers are back on the map, and with CJ Johnson leading the charge from the sidelines, they are ready to make history.