When it comes to Auburn football, one thing that has remained consistent throughout the years is the program’s ability to produce elite-level running backs. It’s a tradition as old as time on the Plains: if there’s a new season approaching, there’s a high likelihood that a dynamic, powerful, and productive tailback will emerge from the backfield. That legacy has only grown stronger in recent years, with two recent stars making their way to the NFL and continuing Auburn’s storied tradition at the position.
In 2023, Tank Bigsby heard his name called in the NFL Draft and was picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bigsby, who displayed a mix of explosiveness and toughness during his time with the Tigers, was a crucial piece of Auburn’s offensive identity and left a significant impact. Then, just last month, Jarquez Hunter made the leap to the professional level as well, signing with the Los Angeles Rams. Hunter, known for his balance, patience, and strength through contact, took over the reins after Bigsby’s departure and delivered consistently as the team’s lead back. His absence now leaves a major hole in the offense, and with a fresh season looming, the question naturally arises: who’s next in line?
Enter Damari Alston, the likely starter heading into the 2025 campaign. After patiently waiting his turn behind Hunter and contributing when called upon, Alston is poised to take control of the Auburn running game. Over the past few seasons, he’s demonstrated the kind of determination and growth needed to become a top-tier SEC back. His vision, ability to follow blocks, and physicality in short-yardage situations have all improved, and now, with the opportunity to lead, the spotlight will be firmly on him to keep Auburn’s running tradition alive.
But Alston isn’t the only name worth knowing in the Tigers’ backfield. According to AL.com, one player with the potential to steal the show this year is none other than Jeremiah Cobb, a homegrown talent from just an hour down the road. Cobb, who is heading into his junior season with the Tigers, may be flying slightly under the radar right now, but that likely won’t be the case for long. After spending the last two seasons learning the ropes and contributing in multiple ways, Cobb appears primed for a breakout.
So far in his Auburn career, Cobb has accumulated 260 rushing yards and two touchdowns—not gaudy numbers, but enough to demonstrate his capability when given the chance. More importantly, his confidence is building, and the trust from coaches and teammates is evident. Following a solid showing during the Tigers’ A-Day spring practice, Cobb made it clear that he sees himself as a significant contributor in 2025. “I see myself being a guy that is going to make plays this year and I’m going to do that the best way I can,” Cobb said. His words reflect not only personal belief but a readiness to take on a bigger role and help fill the void left by Hunter.
Last season, Cobb’s primary role was as a special teams weapon. He made his presence known as a returner, showcasing his speed, agility, and instincts in the open field. But with a new crop of young running backs now entering the fold, Cobb may be freed from those duties, which opens the door for him to take on more offensive snaps. That transition appears to already be underway, as Cobb has taken the majority of second-team reps during spring practice. His overall game has matured—he’s showing more patience behind the line, improved ball security, and a better understanding of pass protection, all essential for earning the trust of coaches and quarterbacks alike.
Cobb’s rise isn’t going unnoticed within the locker room. Alston, now the veteran of the group, has been vocal about the work Cobb has put in and his expectations for the offense this season. “Jeremiah Cobb has been putting in the work,” Alston said. “We are going to be running the table this year for our offense.” That kind of endorsement from a projected starter means a lot, especially at a school like Auburn, where competition for carries is always fierce and roles must be earned through daily effort.
It’s also worth noting that Cobb’s journey to this point has been shaped by patience and preparation. Coming out of high school, he was a highly regarded recruit with plenty of offers, and he chose Auburn in part because of the program’s reputation for developing NFL-ready running backs. Spending his early seasons behind players like Hunter and learning the demands of SEC football has only strengthened his resolve. Now, with the benefit of experience and a body better prepared for the rigors of a full SEC season, Cobb has the opportunity to break out in a big way.
Another factor working in Cobb’s favor is Auburn’s commitment to a balanced offense under head coach Hugh Freeze. Known for innovative play-calling and the ability to scheme for running backs in both traditional and spread sets, Freeze’s system offers multiple avenues for backs to thrive. Whether it’s through zone reads, stretch plays, or creative screen passes, there are plenty of ways for a versatile back like Cobb to get touches and make an impact. His skill set—quick feet, strong lower body, and reliable hands—could make him a valuable dual-threat option for Freeze and the offensive staff.
The timing also couldn’t be better. With a new season set to kick off on August 29 against Baylor, Auburn will be looking to set the tone early. The non-conference opener presents a key opportunity for the running game to assert itself and for players like Alston and Cobb to show what they’ve been building toward all offseason. If Cobb is able to capitalize on early opportunities, don’t be surprised if his role continues to expand week by week.
Of course, depth will still be important, and Auburn has other young backs eager to make their mark. But in terms of readiness and potential, Cobb stands out as a player who could go from being a rotational option to a featured weapon in a hurry. It’s not just about raw stats—it’s about momentum, presence, and the ability to change a game in a single snap. Cobb has flashed that kind of potential in limited action, and now he’s in position to deliver on a much bigger stage.
For Auburn fans, that’s an exciting prospect. There’s nothing quite like watching a local kid rise through the ranks and become a star in orange and blue. Cobb’s proximity to the Plains means he understands the culture, the expectations, and the pride that comes with being a Tiger. If he continues to trend upward, his story could become the latest chapter in a long line of great Auburn running backs who began their careers quietly and ended them as legends.
As the countdown to the season continues, the focus will naturally be on quarterback battles, defensive improvements, and offensive line play. But don’t lose sight of what’s happening in the backfield. Alston will get his carries and will likely lead the team statistically, but the real story could be the emergence of Jeremiah Cobb. He’s got the tools, the attitude, and now, finally, the opportunity. Auburn’s tradition of great running backs isn’t just alive—it might be about to add a new name to the list.
The 2025 season is fast approaching, and with it comes a renewed sense of excitement and possibility. Auburn fans will soon get to see whether the work put in during spring and summer translates to success on the field. If Cobb’s trajectory continues upward, don’t be surprised if he becomes a household name across the SEC by season’s end. The Tigers have always known how to run the ball—and Jeremiah Cobb may be the next great reason why.