it's a spring of transition auburn head coach Hugh Freeze and his coaching staff.
There will be some roster turnover during today's A-Day, as well as some coaching turnover. It also leads to new offensive and defensive schemes. So which players should Auburn fans look forward to seeing today with all the changes?
Here are five players Tigers fans should expect to see important roles this season, based on what the media has seen during spring practice so far. This is a combination of returning starters and rising players.
Peyton Thorne – Quarterback
Thorne, who weighs up to 210 pounds, has been with the first team all spring and is far more confident than he was last season. That applies to himself, his teammates, and another important aspect of the 2024 Auburn offense.
Specifically, Thursday's meeting with the media included Thorn mentioning how pleased he is with the emphasis on run-pass options that Auburn is currently using. Not much of a hit today, but I'm really looking forward to seeing what happens in the fall. Thorne intends to depart if needed and is also feeling good about his receiving corps.
Note: Several of Auburn's receivers are out of order, so it's difficult to determine which receivers play well or if they will play today..
Percy Lewis – left tackle
Mammoth! The former Mississippi State Bulldog is currently the Tigers' starting left tackle. Even though Lewis is around 6-foot-7 and weighs 340 pounds, he is light on his feet and has great lateral movement. The way he protects passes with his natural kick step is impressive.
Don't get me wrong, Lewis' mass also makes him a slow bear in the run game. He will be one of the SEC's best offensive tackles next season. Lewis' full profile is below. Auburn Athletics Website.
Darron Reed Jr. – Defensive Line
Carver, a sophomore from Columbus (Ga.), is making a name for himself thanks to his quality springs thus far. He weighs up to 290 pounds and is a prominent member of Auburn's defensive tackle rotation.
Reed also has the physical talent to play strong-side end in short yardage situations. Look for this second-year player to make an impact for the Tigers on A-Day and next fall.
Jalen McLeod – Defensive End/Outside Linebacker
McLeod, a 2023 mainstay, is very focused on developing before moving on to the 2025 NFL Draft. He is constantly mentioned by teammates as a standout player during spring practice.
McLeod’s 2023 stats are impressive. According to CFB stats, McLeod has 48 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. Look for McLeod to do well today, already being Auburn's top player and he'll be back for one more season.
Cain Lee – Cornerback
Lee went away From 2023, he has 18 tackles, two tackles for loss, and six pass breakups. As he has been with the first team for most of the spring, Auburn fans should expect the long-armed cornerback to be a playmaker now and during the 2024 Auburn football season.
Overall, Lee will help Auburn enter Freeze's second season on the Plains as one of the top secondaries in the SEC. He could play nickel today and/or during the season.
