NFL Training Camps Open With High Stakes as Former Auburn Tigers Aim to Impress, Earn Roles, and Build Long-Term Pro Careers
With NFL preseason training camps officially underway, excitement is mounting across the league as all 32 teams begin the annual process of preparing for the regular season. Rookies are trying to find their footing, veterans are looking to reestablish their value, and coaches are evaluating every snap, drill, and rep in search of the best 53-man rosters. Amid the grind of practice and positional battles, a number of former Auburn Tigers are fighting to make their mark. From established starters to undrafted rookies trying to prove themselves, Auburn is well-represented across the league, and several former Tigers are in position to either take the next step in their careers or fight for their football lives in a high-stakes environment.
Every year, preseason camp serves as a proving ground, and for former Auburn players, the expectation is always to bring physicality, toughness, and football IQ—traits that have long defined the program. While Auburn may not be as prolific in NFL player output as a few other SEC powerhouses, it has consistently produced quality contributors, particularly on defense and in the trenches. Now, as August approaches, a new group of former Tigers is hoping to carry that legacy forward.
One of the most high-profile names entering this preseason is Derrick Brown, the former All-American defensive tackle and first-round pick of the Carolina Panthers. Brown has quietly developed into one of the more consistent interior linemen in the NFC South, and with the Panthers undergoing major transitions in both their coaching staff and roster, he’s expected to be a central figure on defense. Brown is entering a pivotal contract year and is looking to assert himself as not only a run-stopper but also a more disruptive interior pass rusher. His strength, leverage, and motor are well-known, but this season could be the one where he takes the leap from good to great.
Another former Auburn star turning heads is Roger McCreary, the talented cornerback who found a home in Tennessee with the Titans. McCreary’s ball skills, quick feet, and intelligence have helped him thrive in a system that demands versatility and physicality in coverage. He’s now entering his third season and is projected to be a starter once again, but training camp will be important for sharpening his technique, building chemistry with new additions in the secondary, and taking on a greater leadership role. As the Titans work to retool their roster under new head coach Brian Callahan, McCreary is viewed as a foundational piece in their defensive backfield.
Down in Miami, wide receiver DeVante Parker is trying to find a second wind in his career after bouncing around the league in recent seasons. Once a promising young receiver with the Dolphins, Parker is now back in the mix, competing for a roster spot in a crowded wide receiver room. Known for his size and contested-catch ability, Parker’s chances of sticking on a 53-man roster may come down to special teams value and veteran consistency. He’ll need to flash in preseason games, stay healthy, and make the most of every limited opportunity to show he still belongs.
On the opposite end of the career spectrum is Carlton Davis III, who remains one of the league’s more consistent and respected cornerbacks. Now with the Detroit Lions after several solid seasons in Tampa Bay, Davis brings toughness, physicality, and playoff experience to a Detroit team with postseason aspirations. His transition into a new system will be one of the key camp storylines, as he looks to settle in quickly and provide stability on the outside. Davis has long thrived in press coverage, and if he adapts quickly, he could be a game-changer for a Detroit defense that has lacked consistency on the back end.
Another veteran fighting to extend his career is Kamryn Pettway, the former Auburn running back whose path to the NFL has been far from conventional. After injuries derailed his college career and limited early opportunities, Pettway has resurfaced with a chance to compete in camp. He’s a long shot, but he’s used to being overlooked. Pettway’s physical style, north-south running ability, and toughness make him intriguing in short-yardage and goal-line situations, especially for teams that still value a power back in an increasingly pass-heavy league. Every rep matters, and Pettway knows this camp may be his last chance to prove he belongs.
Meanwhile, rookie Jarquez Hunter is getting his first taste of NFL life after declaring early and impressing scouts with his explosiveness and ability to break tackles. Signed as an undrafted free agent, Hunter is in a heated battle to earn a depth role on his new team, with coaches taking note of his special teams potential and quick-cut running style. Hunter’s vision and low center of gravity give him a real shot to surprise people. The preseason will be crucial—he’ll need to take advantage of every carry and show value beyond just running the ball.
On the offensive line, former Auburn standout Brandon Council is continuing his climb up the depth chart in Indianapolis. Council’s versatility—having played multiple positions across the offensive line during his college days—has made him a valuable piece in training camp rotations. Injuries inevitably affect offensive line depth, and Council’s ability to play guard or center makes him a candidate to stick around if he can show consistency and toughness. He’s not flashy, but he’s a grinder, and coaches love players who show up, do their job, and don’t make mistakes.
Then there’s Anthony Schwartz, the former Auburn track star turned wide receiver, who is now trying to revitalize his pro career with the Miami Dolphins. Schwartz has elite speed, but inconsistency and injuries have plagued him so far. This camp may be his make-or-break moment. With Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle occupying the top of the depth chart, Schwartz’s path to a roster spot depends on whether he can carve out a niche as a deep threat or return specialist. He’ll need to prove his hands have caught up with his feet, but if he can flash in camp and preseason games, he may earn another shot.
Another Auburn alum trying to prove himself is Smoke Monday, a fan-favorite safety who brings swagger and physicality to every play. Monday, currently with the New Orleans Saints, is looking to make noise on special teams and carve out a role as a rotational safety. His aggressive play style has always been a double-edged sword—he makes big hits and momentum-changing plays, but he’s also prone to penalties and over-pursuit. If he can show discipline and continue to shine in the film room, Monday has the talent to stick.
Of course, no Auburn-related NFL camp discussion would be complete without mentioning the quarterbacks. While no former Auburn QB is currently a starting NFL quarterback, several are still active or affiliated with practice squads and developmental leagues. Players like Jarrett Stidham, now backing up in Denver, are continuing to show value as long-term depth options. Stidham’s arm strength and understanding of the game keep him in the league, and he’s one injury away from potentially starting meaningful games. His performance in preseason will determine how secure his role is in Denver’s pecking order.
Looking across the league, Auburn’s presence is felt in many subtle but significant ways. From special teams aces and practice squad grinders to frontline defensive starters and locker room leaders, former Tigers continue to impact NFL rosters in ways that reflect the program’s values. Hard work, resilience, and a willingness to battle are common threads among Auburn alumni, and this year’s crop of players brings all of that and more to their respective training camps.
What remains to be seen is how many of these players will make final rosters, how many will emerge as surprise contributors, and which ones will earn extended looks through preseason performance. Injuries, roster needs, and scheme fits all play a role, and the margins are thin. Still, there’s reason for optimism. Auburn players have shown time and again that they can adapt, compete, and thrive when given the chance.
As the NFL preseason progresses and rosters begin to take shape, fans of Auburn football will have plenty of reasons to tune in. Whether it’s tracking veterans like Derrick Brown and Carlton Davis or rooting for underdogs like Jarquez Hunter and Anthony Schwartz, the storylines are compelling and the stakes are high. Training camp is not just the beginning of another season—it’s a spotlight, a test, and a dream in motion. And for these former Tigers, it’s a chance to prove once again that Auburn men never stop fighting.
