Auburn Football’s First Spring Practice of 2025: Observations, Controversies, and Standouts
Auburn football kicked off its 2025 spring practice under intense scrutiny, with fans eager to see how second-year head coach Hugh Freeze’s revamped roster would take shape. With new talent, heated position battles, and an aggressive tempo, the first practice set the tone for a pivotal season. Here are the biggest takeaways.
Quarterback Battle Already Divisive
The Tigers’ quarterback competition is officially Auburn’s biggest storyline. Sophomore Walker White took first-team reps early, showcasing a stronger deep ball than last year’s starter, Payton Thorne. Thorne, now a senior, showed command of the offense but struggled under pressure, raising concerns about his pocket presence. Meanwhile, five-star freshman Jaden Bradford turned heads with his poise and quick decision-making, fueling speculation that he could push for the starting job.
Explosive Offense, Questionable Line Play
New offensive coordinator Bobby Bentley wasted no time implementing a faster, spread-style attack. Running back Jeremiah Cobb displayed elite burst, breaking off multiple big runs, while transfer wide receiver Xavier Williams torched defenders in one-on-ones. However, Auburn’s offensive line remains a work in progress. The unit allowed several pressures in live drills, raising questions about its ability to protect against SEC defenses.
Defensive Intensity Raises Eyebrows
Auburn’s defense, now under the aggressive leadership of coordinator Charles Kelly, played with noticeable physicality—perhaps too much. A scuffle between linebacker DeMario Tolan and offensive lineman Izavion Miller led to practice being briefly stopped. The defensive line, led by five-star sophomore Keldric Faulk, dominated the trenches, disrupting multiple plays before they could develop.
Controversial Position Switches
One of the biggest surprises was the move of former five-star safety Kayson Jenkins to cornerback. While coaches insist he’s a natural fit, some insiders believe the move is a gamble, given Auburn’s already thin safety depth. Another shock came when tight end Rivaldo Fairweather was spotted taking snaps at H-back, a move that suggests Auburn plans to feature him more in the run game.
Early Takeaways: Boom or Bust Season?
Auburn’s first spring practice revealed a team with explosive potential but lingering concerns. The quarterback battle is far from settled, the offensive line remains suspect, and the defense might need to rein in its aggression. With a brutal SEC schedule ahead, the Tigers must refine their identity quickly.
One thing is clear—this Auburn team won’t lack excitement.
