In an era when college football players are increasingly eager to make the leap to the NFL, Auburn Tigers running back Damari Alston has chosen a different path—one steeped in loyalty, unfinished business, and a growing belief in what’s being built on The Plains.
Alston, the 5-foot-10, 210-pound junior who emerged as a vocal leader and pivotal playmaker in 2024, has officially announced that he will return to Auburn for his senior season in 2025, forgoing early entry into the NFL Draft. The decision, revealed in a heartfelt social media video and followed by a press conference at Auburn’s athletic complex, reverberated through the SEC and instantly elevated expectations for the Tigers’ 2025 campaign.
A Statement of Loyalty
“After long talks with my family, Coach Freeze, and God, I’ve decided to run it back one more time,” Alston said during the announcement. “The NFL isn’t going anywhere. But my time at Auburn—this team, this community, this journey—is something I’m not ready to walk away from yet.”
Alston’s choice is increasingly rare. The NFL Draft offers a tempting reward—financial security, professional prestige, and the opportunity to compete at the highest level. But for Alston, Auburn offered something even more powerful: a legacy worth finishing.
“I came here to leave a mark,” he continued. “And I feel like I’ve only just scratched the surface.”
Alston’s Rise to Prominence
In 2024, Alston broke out as the Tigers’ most dependable offensive weapon. Rushing for 1,184 yards and 11 touchdowns, he showcased a unique blend of power and agility, quickly becoming the heartbeat of Hugh Freeze’s offense. His production came despite injuries and inconsistencies along the offensive line, as well as a rotating cast of quarterbacks under center.
Beyond the numbers, Alston’s leadership qualities came into focus. He was named a team captain midway through the season and was often seen rallying teammates during adversity.
“Damari’s not just a great player—he’s the kind of guy who sets the tone for your entire locker room,” said Coach Freeze. “His decision to come back says everything you need to know about him and about where we’re headed.”
The NIL Factor
While some may assume Alston’s return is purely about team culture or draft stock, there’s another undeniable factor at play: Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.
Multiple sources close to the program confirmed that Alston has secured lucrative NIL deals that will allow him to continue supporting his family and securing his financial future while remaining in college. These include partnerships with national sportswear brands, local Alabama businesses, and a new endorsement campaign featuring Auburn football athletes.
“Let’s be honest, NIL changed the game,” Alston admitted. “It gives guys like me the chance to keep building something without feeling pressure to rush. I’m blessed to be in that position.”
Industry insiders estimate his 2025 NIL valuation could exceed $750,000, a number that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago for a college running back.
Unfinished Business at Auburn
For Alston, the decision was not just about personal gain or potential draft positioning. It was also about the pursuit of a championship—a goal that has eluded Auburn during his tenure.
“I want to be part of bringing Auburn back to where it belongs,” Alston said. “We’ve made progress, but we’re not done. The way last season ended left a bad taste in my mouth. I want to finish this thing the right way—with a title run.”
The Tigers finished 8-5 in 2024, including a disappointing loss to Ole Miss in the final regular season game and a narrow defeat in the Gator Bowl against North Carolina. While progress was evident under Freeze’s leadership, the team still lacked the consistency and explosive offense needed to contend for the SEC crown.
With Alston returning, Auburn immediately gains stability and star power in the backfield. Combined with a maturing quarterback room and a revamped offensive line, the Tigers now boast one of the most experienced and balanced offenses in the conference.
NFL Draft Evaluation
Prior to his announcement, Alston had received a fourth-round projection from several NFL Draft analysts. Scouts praised his vision, low center of gravity, and tackle-breaking ability, but cited concerns about top-end speed and pass-catching consistency.
“Alston is a classic SEC bruiser with solid upside,” one NFC scout told DraftBuzz. “But in a deep running back class, it made sense for him to return and try to elevate his stock.”
By coming back for his senior year, Alston has the opportunity to work on those areas, particularly his role as a receiver out of the backfield. He caught just 16 passes for 141 yards in 2024, but coaches have hinted that an expanded role is coming in 2025.
“He’s been grinding all spring to become more of a three-down back,” Auburn running backs coach Cadillac Williams said. “If he adds that dimension to his game, you’re looking at a guy who could be a Day 1 or Day 2 pick next year.”
Locker Room Impact
While Alston’s return is a major on-field boost, its impact on Auburn’s locker room might be even greater. As a senior leader, his presence is expected to guide younger players and help reinforce the culture Freeze has worked to instill.
Sophomore linebacker Jayden McBride called the announcement “a shot of adrenaline” for the team.
“When Damari speaks, people listen,” McBride said. “He’s the guy you want next to you in the trenches. Having him back is like getting a coach and a warrior all in one.”
Alston is also organizing a team-wide summer retreat, a new tradition he hopes will foster deeper bonds and set the tone for a championship push.
What’s Next for Auburn?
With Alston now locked in for 2025, Auburn’s offense is taking shape. The Tigers return four starters on the offensive line and are expected to name sophomore Hank Brown the starting quarterback after an impressive spring.
Wideouts Camden Brown and Malcolm Johnson Jr. provide explosive options on the perimeter, and tight end Rivaldo Fairweather remains a red-zone threat. But it all begins—and likely ends—with Alston.
“We’re going to go as far as he takes us,” said OC Philip Montgomery. “He’s our engine.”
Defensively, the Tigers have work to do, particularly in the secondary. But recruiting has picked up, and the 2025 schedule—while still featuring showdowns with Alabama, Georgia, and LSU—offers early-season tune-ups that could help build momentum.
A Legacy in the Making
Alston’s return adds to a growing trend of players choosing to build legacies in college rather than bolt for the draft at the first opportunity. It’s a sign of the times, yes—but it’s also a sign of the culture Freeze is building.
In three years, Alston has rushed for 2,343 yards and 22 touchdowns, but his legacy extends beyond stats. He’s become a face of the program, a mentor for young players, and now—potentially—the cornerstone of Auburn’s resurgence.
“I want people to remember me not just as a good player,” Alston said. “I want to be remembered as a great Tiger. And to do that, I need one more ride.”
Final Thoughts
Damari Alston’s decision to return to Auburn for his senior season is more than just a personal choice—it’s a statement of belief. Belief in the program, in the power of college football, and in the chance to finish what he started.
With the landscape of college athletics shifting rapidly, Alston represents a new kind of athlete: one who embraces NIL opportunities, wields leadership responsibly, and values legacy as much as he does a draft slot.
For Auburn fans, his return is a reason to dream again. For SEC defenses, it’s a looming problem. And for Damari Alston, it’s a golden opportunity—to cement his name in Auburn history and possibly carry his team to glory.