Why Auburn football’s 2022 RB room could end up being CFB’s best

The future is bright for Auburn football’s running backs room, even more so with the possibility of securing 4-star 2022 RB Damari Alston. The Tigers are loaded with returners Tank Bigsby and Shaun Shivers in addition to 2021 signee Jarquez Hunter, but depth will be needed sooner rather than later.

The nation’s 29th best running back visited Auburn unofficially on Wednesday and spent time with Bryan Harsin, Mike Bobo, Cadillac Williams, and even Tank Bigsby. Auburn Rivals reports that the Auburn staff has made it clear to Alston that he is a priority target:

"“They’re just telling me to make sure I know I’m a priority for them,” Alston said. “They need me here. The main thing they kept saying is they need to get Tank some help. I know they got Shaun Shivers but he’s leaving after this year because he’s a senior. They want a good 22 guy, or two of them. I see opportunity here.”"

The RB said he could see himself playing alongside Tank Bigsby, who is also from the state of Georgia. Alston wants to play with a group of running backs that will push him to improve his game and isn’t intimidated by Auburn football’s talented roster, according to AL.com:

"“Coach Cadillac always told me iron sharpens iron,” Alston said."

In the 2020 season, Alston racked up 1,507 rushing yards for 25 touchdowns, in addition to hauling in 22 receptions for 229 yards and two touchdowns. He is a complete package, with the ability to both run and catch the ball.

Alston has over 50 offers in hand and has already taken an unofficial visit to Florida and an official visit to LSU, who is predicted to land the recruit by the 247 Sports Crystal Ball Prediction. He will also officially visit Northwestern on June 18 and Penn State on June 25.

The 4-star prospect plans to return to the Plains for a gameday visit and wants to see a winning program conducted by Coach Harsin. He plans to officially commit to a school sometime this fall during his senior season.

If Damari Alston truly wants to learn from the best, the Auburn football program is the best place for that to happen. With guys like Tank Bigsby and Shaun Shivers, Alston will have strong mentors to help him realize his potential.