SEC predictions: Which Auburn players deserve preseason All-SEC recognition

Auburn receiver Ryan Davis (23) caught a team-record 84 passes last season and Jarrett Stidham (8) will look for him often in 2018. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Auburn receiver Ryan Davis (23) caught a team-record 84 passes last season and Jarrett Stidham (8) will look for him often in 2018. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
8 of 12
Auburn football
Dontavius Russell brings experience and playmaking ability to the Auburn defensive front. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

DL Dontavius Russell

When you say the name Dontavius Russell, it’s almost too cliche to say he’s an unsung hero of the defense. But he absolutely is.

The 6-3, 320-pound senior defensive lineman could have turned pro after last season. Instead, he returned to be part of what should be one of the nation’s best defenses. He’s started 37 games over his career and totaled 117 tackles.

His impact in the win against Georgia last season was huge. He recorded four tackles, had a sack and forced a fumble. Paired with Derrick Brown in the middle of the Auburn defense, Russell could be poised for a monster season in 2018.

FlyWarEagle prediction: All-SEC third-team