As media sessions for the Southeastern Conference approach, anticipation builds across the college football landscape — especially on the Plains, where a much-anticipated showdown with Baylor looms on August 29. With the 2025 slate on the horizon, several players in orange and blue are poised to emerge as impact contributors.
Damari Alston, Running Back – Final-Year Player
With the departure of former backfield standout Jarquez Hunter to the NFL’s Los Angeles franchise, Auburn’s ground game will look to new faces for production. Alston, a seasoned ball-carrier with experience as Hunter’s understudy, is in line to take on a larger role. The veteran will be challenged by playmakers like third-year rusher Jeremiah Cobb, transfer pickup Durell Robinson from UConn, and first-year back Alvin Henderson.
Despite stiff competition, Alston’s combination of quick acceleration and compact power — in a 5’9″, 200-pound frame — gives him an edge. Over his career, he’s amassed nearly 700 yards and five scores. With improvements up front and a more threatening aerial attack expected, defenses may be forced to ease up, opening lanes for the senior to shine.
Champ Anthony, Defensive Back – Third-Year Player
A promising start to Anthony’s 2024 campaign was tragically cut short by a severe lower leg injury sustained in Week 4 against Arkansas. He’d already logged double-digit tackles and several pass breakups in limited action, suggesting a breakout was imminent.
Now recovering and likely ready for full participation by fall practices, Anthony is projected to step into the nickel corner role. If he returns to full form, his physicality and instincts will make him a centerpiece in a young but talented secondary.
Perry Thompson, Wide Receiver – Second-Year Player
One of the headliners from Auburn’s highly celebrated 2024 pass-catching class — sometimes dubbed the “Freeze Four” — Thompson enters his sophomore season looking to take the next step. Though overshadowed last fall by classmates Cam Coleman and Malcolm Simmons, Thompson flashed high-end traits, including a 70-yard scoring grab against Alabama A&M.
With a powerful 6’3”, 220-pound build and vertical speed, he fits the mold of a dominant outside weapon. Competing with Georgia Tech transfer Eric Singleton Jr. and facing depth-chart pressure from additions like Horatio Fields and first-year wideout Sam Turner, Thompson’s strong spring may earn him meaningful snaps and a growing connection with quarterback Jackson Arnold.
As head coach Hugh Freeze continues to bring elite talent into the program, the door is wide open for emerging stars to leave their stamp on what could be a pivotal season on the Plains.