“Just his decision making, him knowing where the ball is supposed to be and being able to look at the defense and knowing where to throw the ball,” said sophomore wide receiver Malcolm Simmons when asked what stands out about Arnold. “We need a good quarterback, somebody to be able to run the offense and run the system that frees the runner.”
Arnold’s relationship with Simmons will be an important one, as Simmons was one of the breakout players in Auburn’s offense last season. He caught 40 passes for 451 yards and three touchdowns in 2024, and could take on an even bigger role this season.
Head coach Hugh Freeze said on the first day of practice that he’s “very optimistic” about Arnold early on in his time at Auburn. Like Simmons, Freeze also complimented Arnold’s decision making, something that carries extra importance given last season’s turnover problems.
“There’s a reason he was Gatorade Player of the Year coming out of high school,” Freeze said. “I think he needed a (restart) to regain some confidence. I think he’s doing that at a fast, fast pace.”
When talking about his intangibles, senior offensive lineman Jeremiah Wright praised Arnold’s leadership, describing his personality as goofy.
“Very funny guy,” Wright said. “Just try to brighten up the room and try to get to know each and everybody and really learn their background and why they play football.”
Quarterbacks coach Kent Austin gave a more technical explanation of Arnold as a player, complimenting his smarts, quick release, accuracy, pocket presence and foot speed.
Austin also backed up what Freeze said, alluding to Arnold already looking promising as Auburn’s signal caller.
“He’s got a pretty good command of what we’re doing right now,” Austin said. “He’s a really talented player, and we are very hopeful that he’ll stay on the trajectory he’s on right now and carry us out of the spring and into the summer, and obviously into the fall and play at a high level.”
