Auburn Tigers dragging their feet with Malcolm Simmons arrest and possible looming suspension as they "gather the facts"
By now much of the entire college football world knows that Auburn wide receiver Malcolm Simmons was arrested this week for domestic violence charges. However, it's been a few days and there is still not official update from Auburn on where Simmons stands with the team as they drag their feet on any suspension or […]
By now much of the entire college football world knows that Auburn wide receiver Malcolm Simmons was arrested this week for domestic violence charges. However, it's been a few days and there is still not official update from Auburn on where Simmons stands with the team as they drag their feet on any suspension or consequences.
What happened? And what is Auburn going to do here in the near future? Let's dive in.
Malcolm Simmons, Auburn WR arrested for domestic violence
Initially, when the news dropped this week that Malcolm Simmons had been arrested, almost nothing was known. In fact, Simmons' arrest information wasn't posted for the public to see for very long before it was temporarily removed.
All anyone knew was that Simmons was arrested for "assault domestic violence strangulation or suffocation". There was some initial confusion as to whether he posted bond and what exactly was going on. However, more details began to emerge within 24 hours.
Multiple sources and court records confirmed that a woman told police about Malcolm Simmons' "strangling her with both of his hands". That woman would later be identified by police as Malcolm Simmons' girlfriend.
The evidence against Simmons was obviously not a good look. The police reported bruises on her neck immediately after responding to the call and domestic violence accusations.
What will Auburn do as a program to punish Malcolm Simmons?
Hugh Freeze and the Auburn athletic department has since done very little to address the situation since the felony charges were issued. Those closest to the situation believe there will be some clarity soon as Auburn continues to "gather the facts" (per Auburn's official statements).
The school is officially holding off to make any final judgment since "football activities are not going on at the moment". The university staffers want everyone to know that they certainly aren't taking these allegations and charges lightly, but simply want to make the right decision here.
It is not fair to assume the school will judge one way or the other, and what's most important is that justice is properly served. With that said, what should Auburn fans expect should the worst come to pass in regards to Malcolm Simmons' future with the program?
The top two wide receivers for the Auburn Tigers this season were always going to be rising sophomore star Cam Coleman (at X), and Eric Singleton (the transfer from Georgia Tech). Yes, Malcolm Simmons impressed last season as a true freshman with 40 receptions for 451 yards and three touchdowns, but Auburn should have depth good enough to step up in his place should he miss time (or be dismissed from the program entirely).
Top 50 overall recruit in the nation (among the 2024 class) Perry Thompson could be called upon more than expected given his immense talent and physical profile. However, Bryce Cain may be the better direct fit as a replacement for the primary slot option given his more shifty route running abilities. Transfer Horatio Fields would be the least fit to step into Malcolm Simmons' role directly give his size, but if Eric Singleton shifts inside to become the primary slot in Simmons' absence, Fields could be the best option to step up into an increased role given how he impressed in spring.
We'll be back with more Auburn Tigers coverage here at A to Z Sports soon! Follow me (@FF_TravisM) and A to Z Sports (@AtoZSportsNFL) on X for all the latest football news!
