Auburn Returning Players 2025: Top 5 Players Who Will Return to Hugh Freeze’s Squad ft. Cam Coleman
As Auburn University looks to build on its momentum and continue the program’s ascent under head coach Hugh Freeze, the 2025 season is shaping up to be crucial. With key players returning to the Tigers’ roster, Auburn has the potential to be a formidable contender in the SEC. Some of the returning players are poised to take on leadership roles and are expected to be pivotal in helping Auburn achieve its goals. Let’s break down the top five returning players who will make a significant impact for Hugh Freeze’s squad, with standout talents like Cam Coleman leading the way.
1. Cam Coleman (Wide Receiver)
One of the most exciting returning players for Auburn in 2025 is wide receiver Cam Coleman. As one of the top playmakers in the SEC, Coleman’s return is a huge boost for Auburn’s offense. Standing at 6’3″ with impressive speed and ball-handling skills, Coleman’s ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays will be vital to Auburn’s success in 2025.
In his previous seasons, Coleman has shown his ability to make big catches in critical moments, and his experience will be a key asset as the Tigers look to implement a potent passing attack under Hugh Freeze’s high-tempo, explosive offensive scheme. Coleman’s leadership on and off the field will provide stability and a go-to weapon for whoever takes the reins as the quarterback.
Expect Coleman to be a central figure in Auburn’s offense and a potential All-SEC candidate, with his ability to change the game with every touch.
2. Jarquez Hunter (Running Back)
Another key returning player for Auburn’s offense is Jarquez Hunter, one of the Tigers’ most consistent and explosive running backs. Known for his quick burst and vision, Hunter has been a reliable workhorse for Auburn in previous seasons. With a year of experience in Freeze’s system, he’s poised to take on a larger role in 2025.
Hunter’s ability to read blocks, break tackles, and make defenders miss will be critical as Auburn looks to balance the offensive attack and take some of the pressure off the quarterback position. Freeze has already shown his ability to use running backs in creative ways, and Hunter will be a crucial piece in maintaining Auburn’s offensive versatility. Expect him to be featured heavily in both the run and passing game in 2025.
3. Owen Pappoe (Linebacker)
On the defensive side of the ball, Owen Pappoe returns as one of Auburn’s most impactful and experienced players. Pappoe, a linebacker with incredible speed and football IQ, has been a standout for the Tigers over the years and will be the leader of the Auburn defense in 2025.
A sure tackler and an elite cover linebacker, Pappoe’s ability to read offenses and make adjustments on the fly will be key as Auburn looks to become a dominant force in the SEC. His leadership in the middle of the defense will be invaluable, especially as the Tigers work to implement Freeze’s defensive game plan. Pappoe has the ability to disrupt opposing offenses, and his playmaking ability could be the difference in tight games. With his skill set, Pappoe has the potential to be one of the top linebackers in the SEC.
4. Jalil Irvin (Defensive Line)
Defensive line stalwart Jalil Irvin will return as a key member of the Auburn defense in 2025. Irvin’s ability to clog running lanes and disrupt passing plays makes him an integral part of the Tigers’ defensive line rotation. Standing at 6’4″ and showcasing a blend of strength and agility, Irvin can take over games, especially in the trenches where Auburn needs to dominate.
Freeze has made it clear that he wants to create a balanced, physical team, and having a player like Irvin in the lineup gives Auburn a significant advantage in controlling the line of scrimmage. His pressure on opposing quarterbacks and ability to stop the run will be pivotal in making Auburn’s defense more competitive in the SEC.
5. Keionte Scott (Cornerback)
Finally, Keionte Scott, one of the top returning cornerbacks for Auburn, will be another key player in 2025. Known for his shutdown ability and aggressive coverage, Scott has been one of Auburn’s most reliable defenders in the secondary. His knack for reading quarterbacks, coupled with his ball-hawking ability, makes him a dangerous presence on the field.
In Freeze’s defensive schemes, Scott’s ability to lock down opposing receivers will allow the defense to take more risks and apply pressure. His experience and physicality will be crucial as Auburn looks to bolster its secondary and make strides in stopping the high-powered offenses of the SEC. Look for Scott to take on a leadership role in the Auburn defense and possibly be a standout in the All-SEC conversation.