Auburn football has a massive problem behind center, but underrated support just arrived
It has been a disastrous offseason trying to rebuild the quarterback room for Auburn. After making a run at a couple of talented signal callers, as well as one specifically that didn’t end up entering the Transfer Portal, the Tigers had to make some decisions. We got clarity on the future of that room this […]
It has been a disastrous offseason trying to rebuild the quarterback room for Auburn. After making a run at a couple of talented signal callers, as well as one specifically that didn’t end up entering the Transfer Portal, the Tigers had to make some decisions. We got clarity on the future of that room this week.
With Payton Thorne exhausting eligibility this offseason, as well as Hank Brown, Walker White, and Holden Geriner all entering the portal, volume at the position was needed. Auburn will be getting five-star freshman Deuce Knight coming in, but experience was needed. The Tigers have picked up two transfer quarterbacks so far in Jackson Arnold (Oklahoma) and Ashton Daniels (Stanford).
Between those two quarterbacks, Arnold will be the unquestioned starter going into the 2025 college football season. Daniels will be the main backup, and the hope is that Knight will be able to redshirt. While that isn’t the most attractive situation short term, Auburn is doing a good job of putting solid supports in space.
When you hear the phrase “supporting cast” for quarterbacks, most people immediately start talking about the wide receivers. While it’s important to continue adding quality pass catchers, the staff is also busy trying to find better ways to protect the quarterback. They have been busy doing so in the portal.
It began with retaining talent, which they did this week. Starting offensive lineman Dillon Wade announced that he will be returning for the 2025 season. He has started games at both left tackle and inside at guard during his Auburn career.
One move that didn’t get a lot of attention was the portal addition of former Virginia Tech left tackle Xavier Chaplin. The 6-7, 323-pound standout has two seasons of eligibility remaining, and gives Auburn one of the more talented offensive linemen they have had in some time. Chaplin is an ascending player who has continuously gotten better.
With Wade returning and Chaplin coming in, there’s a good chance the Auburn offensive line takes a step forward next season. Until Knight gets on the field, most Auburn fans won’t be excited about the state of the quarterback room. There’s no question, however, that the supports around them are improving quickly.
