Hugh Freeze can breathe a sigh of relief this weekend as his vision for the Auburn Tigers is beginning to materialize. After a successful signing day that brought in a wealth of talent across various positions, the Tigers’ head coach finds himself looking at a promising future. However, while the incoming class has addressed numerous needs, Auburn still has some gaps to fill on the roster.
To bridge these gaps, the Tigers are turning to the transfer portal, not merely as a way to pad the depth chart but as a strategic opportunity to bring in players who align perfectly with the team’s schematic and cultural needs. This meticulous approach ensures Auburn doesn’t settle for perfunctory additions but instead seeks impactful players who can contribute immediately.
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Ahmad Hardy (RB, Louisiana-Monroe)
One potential target is Ahmad Hardy, a standout running back from Louisiana-Monroe. Hardy left a strong impression during Auburn’s matchup against ULM, racking up 60 yards on 15 carries and scoring a touchdown. His performance throughout the 2024 season solidified his reputation as a premier rusher in the Sun Belt Conference, where he led the league with 1,351 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns—outpacing the nearest competitor by over 300 yards.
With Jarquez Hunter departing for the NFL and Damari Alston yet to take on a significant workload, Auburn’s backfield lacks an experienced, every-down back. Incoming freshman Alvin Henderson offers potential but might not be ready to shoulder the load in a “win-now” 2025 campaign. Hardy presents a solution as a dynamic, volume rusher with burst, agility, and long speed. His low center of gravity and excellent contact balance make him difficult to bring down with arm tackles, reminiscent of Hunter’s running style. If Hardy joins Auburn, he would likely become the immediate starter and provide stability at the position, with three years of eligibility offering long-term value.
Kaidon Salter (QB, Liberty)
The Tigers’ quarterback situation is another area where the transfer portal could play a pivotal role. Kaidon Salter, currently at Liberty, is a name that stands out for several reasons. First, Freeze has a pre-existing relationship with Salter, having recruited and coached him during his time at Liberty. That familiarity could facilitate an easy transition for Salter into Auburn’s system.
Salter has two years of eligibility remaining and could compete for the starting job alongside super freshman Deuce Knight. At worst, he would serve as a veteran backup, mentoring Knight and easing his adjustment to the college game. On the field, Salter is a dual-threat quarterback with blazing speed and the ability to break big plays in space. He also possesses a strong arm, though his accuracy has been inconsistent, making him a mixed bag as a starter. Even so, his athleticism and experience could prove valuable in Auburn’s quarterback room.
Josiah Trotter (LB, West Virginia)
On the defensive side, Auburn has its sights set on linebacker Josiah Trotter, a redshirt freshman from West Virginia. Trotter had an impressive 2024 campaign, finishing second on his team with 93 tackles. As the son of four-time NFL Pro Bowler Jeremiah Trotter, he brings a legacy of toughness and a relentless approach to the game. Trotter is known for his ability to navigate through traffic and make decisive plays on the ball, traits Auburn’s defense could greatly benefit from.
With leading tackler Dorian Mausi graduating, the Tigers need a game-ready linebacker who can step in and deliver. Trotter’s combination of skill, physicality, and three remaining years of eligibility makes him an ideal candidate to strengthen the defense and provide stability in the linebacking corps.
The Bigger Picture
Thanks to a robust recruiting class, Auburn is already laying the foundation for a bright future. The team’s freshman and sophomore classes are shaping up to be strong, but integrating experienced players from the portal is essential to balancing youth with proven talent. The SEC is a notoriously demanding conference, where only the bold thrive, and Auburn appears ready to embrace that challenge.
Freeze’s approach demonstrates a clear vision for building a competitive roster. By targeting players like Hardy, Salter, and Trotter—who bring both talent and eligibility to grow with the program—the Tigers are positioning themselves to rebound from their 5-7 record in 2024. These strategic additions not only address immediate needs but also set the stage for long-term success.
As Roman poet Virgil aptly said, “Fortune favors the bold.” Auburn’s bold moves in recruiting and the transfer portal signal that the Tigers are determined to rise in the SEC, and Freeze is steering the program in the right direction.
