Auburn Tigers football is entering a new era with Hugh Freeze at the helm as the head coach. The spring practices for the 2024 season have provided a glimpse into how Freeze is shaping his team and the future of Auburn football. Known for his offensive acumen and ability to turn programs around, Freeze’s first spring at Auburn has stirred excitement among fans and analysts alike. From new faces to returning players, the Tigers have several breakout candidates poised to make a significant impact this coming season.
In this piece, we’ll dive into the key players who are emerging during Auburn’s spring practices and could be on the verge of breaking out in 2024. These players have demonstrated strong performances in the spring, and with Freeze’s coaching, they could play pivotal roles in the team’s success. Let’s take a closer look at the players who should have Auburn fans buzzing as they gear up for the fall.
1. QB Payton Thorne: The X-Factor at Quarterback
The quarterback position is arguably the most important on any football team, and Auburn’s has been an area of concern in recent years. After the departure of former starting quarterback Robby Ashford, Auburn fans are hoping for stability at the position. Enter Payton Thorne, a transfer from Michigan State who has already demonstrated leadership and skill during the spring practices.
Thorne is a dual-threat quarterback with a strong arm and the ability to make plays with his legs. His experience at Michigan State, where he led the Spartans to a 2022 bowl game, gives him a level of maturity and poise that could serve him well in the SEC. Early reports from spring camp have been glowing, with coaches praising his decision-making, accuracy, and leadership.
Thorne’s ability to read defenses and push the ball downfield has been evident throughout the spring, and his experience with Hugh Freeze’s offensive system is already starting to shine. Freeze’s offense thrives on a balanced attack, utilizing the quarterback’s mobility and arm strength. Thorne fits this system perfectly, and if his development continues at this pace, he could quickly become one of the breakout stars of the SEC.
The competition at quarterback is still ongoing, with Robby Ashford and Holden Geriner also in the mix, but Thorne’s impressive spring performances have made him the frontrunner to start. If Thorne can carry his spring momentum into the fall, he could help elevate Auburn’s offense to new heights.
2. RB Jarquez Hunter: The Workhorse Back
Auburn has long been known for its strong running game, and under Hugh Freeze, that tradition looks set to continue. One player who could take on a larger role in the offense this season is junior running back Jarquez Hunter. Hunter has been a key contributor in Auburn’s backfield for the past few seasons, but 2024 could be the year he truly breaks out.
During the spring, Hunter has been a standout player in Auburn’s practices. His vision, speed, and ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces have been on full display. Freeze’s offense requires a running back who can not only gain yards on traditional runs but also be a weapon in the passing game. Hunter has shown great improvement in his ability to catch passes out of the backfield and run routes as a receiver, which will make him a dual-threat for opposing defenses.
Hunter’s ability to take over a game has been a focal point in spring practices, as Freeze has made it clear that he plans to lean on the running back as a cornerstone of the offense. The addition of a more up-tempo offense could also play to Hunter’s strengths, as he has the speed and endurance to thrive in fast-paced situations.
In 2024, expect Hunter to be one of the SEC’s most dynamic running backs. If he can stay healthy and continue to develop, he could not only lead Auburn in rushing yards but also become one of the conference’s breakout stars.
3. WR Camden Brown: The Next Star at Wide Receiver
Auburn’s receiving corps has been somewhat inconsistent in recent years, but there is a young player who is quickly emerging as a potential star. Sophomore wide receiver Camden Brown has been one of the most talked-about players in Auburn’s spring practices. Brown’s combination of size, speed, and athleticism makes him a dangerous weapon in the passing game, and he’s already building a strong rapport with quarterback Payton Thorne.
At 6’3” and 210 pounds, Brown has the physical attributes of a prototypical SEC receiver. He’s a big-bodied target who can outmuscle defenders for contested catches but also has the speed to stretch the field vertically. During spring practice, Brown has been able to showcase his route-running ability, precise footwork, and knack for making plays in crucial moments. Freeze has always prioritized utilizing his receivers in creative ways, and Brown’s ability to be both a deep threat and a possession receiver gives the offense versatility.
The competition for wide receiver spots at Auburn will be fierce, but Brown’s breakout potential is undeniable. With the passing game expected to become more prominent in Freeze’s offense, Brown could be poised for a big 2024 season. If his spring performances are any indication, he could quickly become one of the SEC’s most exciting wide receivers.
4. OL Avery Jones: Anchoring the Offensive Line
The offensive line is always an area of focus for any team looking to make a deep run, and Auburn’s 2024 offensive line is no exception. One player who has stood out during the spring is senior center Avery Jones. Jones, a transfer from East Carolina, has quickly established himself as the anchor of Auburn’s offensive line and has been praised for his leadership, strength, and technical ability.
A solid offensive line is crucial to the success of both the running game and the passing attack, and Jones has shown the ability to excel in both areas. As the starting center, he will be responsible for making line calls, identifying defensive fronts, and ensuring that the offense operates efficiently. His communication and football IQ have been invaluable during spring camp, and his leadership has already earned him respect from his teammates and coaches.
With Freeze’s offense expected to rely on a balanced attack, the offensive line will play a pivotal role in Auburn’s success. Jones’ ability to create holes for the running game while also providing pass protection will be crucial for the Tigers. If he continues to progress and develop throughout the summer, Jones could be one of the most important players on the team in 2024.
5. DE Jalen McLeod: A Disruptive Force on Defense
While Auburn’s offense is getting a lot of attention under Freeze, the Tigers’ defense is not to be overlooked. One player who is expected to break out on the defensive side of the ball is transfer defensive end Jalen McLeod. McLeod, who comes to Auburn from Appalachian State, has been a standout during spring practices, showcasing his explosive pass-rushing ability and motor.
McLeod is known for his quickness off the edge and his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. Freeze’s defense will likely rely heavily on McLeod to apply pressure in passing situations, and he has the potential to be one of the most dynamic pass rushers in the SEC. During spring practices, McLeod has been consistently in the backfield, registering sacks and hurrying quarterbacks. His ability to impact the game with his speed and explosiveness could make him a game-changer for Auburn’s defense.
With Auburn’s defense looking to take a step forward in 2024, McLeod’s presence on the edge could be a key factor in the team’s success. If he can continue to develop and refine his pass-rushing skills, McLeod could be one of the breakout defensive players in the SEC this season.
6. LB Eugene Asante: The Heart of the Defense
Another defensive player who is poised for a breakout season is linebacker Eugene Asante. Asante, a transfer from North Carolina, has been a key addition to Auburn’s linebacker corps, and his leadership and playmaking ability have been on full display during the spring.
Asante is an instinctive linebacker with the ability to read plays quickly and make tackles in space. His sideline-to-sideline range and physicality have stood out in spring practices, and he is expected to play a pivotal role in Auburn’s defense this season. Freeze’s defensive philosophy often emphasizes speed and aggression, and Asante’s ability to fly to the ball and disrupt plays makes him an ideal fit for this system.
Asante’s leadership in the linebacker room has already been evident, and his experience at the Power Five level will be invaluable as Auburn looks to compete in the SEC. If he continues to play at a high level, Asante could emerge as one of the top linebackers in the conference in 2024.
The 2024 Auburn Tigers Are Ready to Compete
With Hugh Freeze taking over as head coach, Auburn football is undergoing a transformation. Spring practices have given fans a glimpse into the potential of this new-look Tigers team, and several players have emerged as key breakout candidates. From Payton Thorne at quarterback to Jarquez Hunter in the backfield, Camden Brown at wide receiver, and several stars on defense, Auburn has a wealth of talent that could lead to a successful 2024 season.
Freeze’s ability to develop players and implement his offensive and defensive systems has already started to pay dividends. If these breakout candidates can continue their progress and perform at a high level throughout the season, Auburn could be a contender in the SEC once again. For Tigers fans, the future looks bright, and 2024 could be a year to remember.
