Auburn Freshmen Defenders, RB Shine in Preseason Camp

The Auburn Tigers football team is relying on a talented but relatively inexperienced group as they approach the 2025 season, particularly in key defensive positions such as linebacker and cornerback. Freshman linebacker Elijah Melendez and cornerback Jay Crawford, who earned Freshman All-SEC honors last year, continue to impress and are expected to contribute significantly alongside new transfers like Raion Strader and Rayshawn Pleasant, who bolster Auburn's defensive backfield. On offense, the running back room is notably competitive, with freshman Omar Mabson II making a strong early impression during fall camp, challenging expected starters like senior Damari Alston and junior Jeremiah Cobb. Head coach Hugh Freeze highlighted the team's depth and the infusion of freshmen talent across multiple positions, while players praised the athleticism and potential of the incoming class. Despite the youth of the roster, Auburn aims to balance experience with explosive athleticism, hoping to reduce overreliance on freshmen compared to last season. Overall, the Tigers are building a promising foundation for 2025, blending returning sophomores, impactful transfers, and highly regarded freshmen to strengthen the squad.