Predicting Auburn football’s depth chart before spring practice

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Predicting Auburn football’s depth chart before spring practice

As Auburn football gears up for the 2025 season under the leadership of head coach Hugh Freeze, the team has undergone significant changes through recruiting and the transfer portal. With spring practices on the horizon, here’s an in-depth look at the projected depth chart, analyzing each position group and the players expected to make an impact.

Offense

Quarterback

  • Starter: Jackson Arnold
  • Reserves: Ashton Daniels, Deuce Knight, Tanner Bailey

Jackson Arnold, a former five-star recruit, transferred from Oklahoma and is anticipated to be the starting quarterback. In his previous season, Arnold showcased his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for nearly 1,500 yards with 12 touchdowns and three interceptions, while also contributing significantly on the ground. His skill set aligns well with Coach Freeze’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes a dynamic and versatile quarterback.

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Backing up Arnold is Ashton Daniels, a transfer from Stanford, who brings experience and a solid understanding of pro-style offenses. Freshman Deuce Knight, a five-star signee, is viewed as the quarterback of the future for Auburn. While he may see limited action this season, his development will be closely monitored.

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Tanner Bailey adds depth to the position and will compete for playing time during spring practices.

Running Back

  • Starter: Damari Alston
  • Reserves: Jeremiah Cobb, Durell Robinson, Alvin Henderson

With the departure of Jarquez Hunter, Auburn’s running game will rely on a committee approach. Damari Alston is projected as the starter, bringing a blend of power and agility to the backfield. Jeremiah Cobb, who led the team in rushing yards last season, is expected to continue his production and could challenge for the starting role.

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Durell Robinson and freshman Alvin Henderson provide depth and will look to carve out roles in the rotation.

Wide Receiver

  • Starters: Cam Coleman, Eric Singleton Jr., Horatio Fields
  • Reserves: Perry Thompson, Bryce Cain, Malcolm Simmons

The receiving corps has been bolstered by the addition of Eric Singleton Jr., the top-rated transfer wide receiver, who brings speed and playmaking ability to the offense.

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Cam Coleman and Horatio Fields are expected to start alongside Singleton, providing size and reliable hands. Perry Thompson, Bryce Cain, and Malcolm Simmons offer depth and will compete for snaps, potentially contributing in specialized packages.

Tight End

  • Starter: Brandon Frazier
  • Reserves: Preston Howard, Hollis Davidson III

Brandon Frazier returns as the starting tight end, known for his blocking prowess and ability to stretch the field. Preston Howard and Hollis Davidson III provide additional options in two-tight-end sets and will be integral in both the passing and running games.

Offensive Line

  • Starters:

    • Left Tackle: Xavier Chaplin
    • Left Guard: Dillon Wade
    • Center: Connor Lew
    • Right Guard: Jeremiah Wright
    • Right Tackle: Izavion “Too Tall” Miller

  • Reserves:

    • Left Tackle: Tyler Johnson
    • Left Guard: Bradyn Joiner
    • Center: Dylan Senda
    • Right Guard: DeAndre Carter
    • Right Tackle: Mason Murphy

The offensive line has been a focal point for improvement, with key additions through recruiting and the transfer portal. Xavier Chaplin and Izavion Miller are expected to anchor the tackle positions, bringing size and athleticism. Dillon Wade and Jeremiah Wright provide experience at the guard spots, while Connor Lew is set to start at center, ensuring stability in the middle. Depth will be crucial, and players like Tyler Johnson and Bradyn Joiner will be ready to step in as needed.

Defense

Defensive Line

  • Starters: Malik Blocton (Defensive Tackle), Bobby Jamison-Travis (Nose Tackle), Keldric Faulk (Defensive End)
  • Reserves: Antonio Coleman, Dallas Walker IV, Amaris Williams

Auburn’s defensive line is anchored by Keldric Faulk, who has been a disruptive force off the edge. Malik Blocton and Bobby Jamison-Travis are expected to start on the interior, providing strength against the run and the ability to collapse the pocket. The rotation will be bolstered by Antonio Coleman, Dallas Walker IV, and Amaris Williams, ensuring fresh legs and sustained pressure throughout games.

Buck Linebacker

  • Starter: Keyron Crawford
  • Reserves: Chris Murray, Jamonta Waller, Joseph Smith

The Buck linebacker position, a hybrid role combining defensive end and outside linebacker responsibilities, will be manned by Keyron Crawford. His versatility allows Auburn to adapt to various offensive schemes. Chris Murray, Jamonta Waller, and Joseph Smith provide depth and will see situational playing time, particularly in pass-rushing scenarios.

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