Auburn football fans are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season. From the new coaching staff to the new schemes to the new attitude within the program, things seem to be on the up and up for the Tigers.
Hugh Freeze said earlier this week that the two position groups that have the longest way to go in terms of improvement are the wide receivers and the quarterbacks, which is not a surprise. The situation last year was messy, with TJ Finley getting the QB1 nod but the responsibility ultimately landing on the shoulders of Robby Ashford, who had never before played a game of college football.
With the quarterback issues and the struggling offensive line, it was hard to expect a whole lot from the receiver group, but it’s also true that the Auburn football program has not had a standout receiver for a couple of years. That may change this season with sophomore Camden Brown.
He earned high praise ahead of the 2022 season but wasn’t able to really make his mark for the above reasons. However, his teammates and his position coach definitely see some development, per AL.com:
"“That’s a guy that has changed from Year one to Year two,” cornerback D.J. James said. “He’s developed. He’s gotten bigger, faster and stronger. I like him.”"
Brown is also one of the bigger receivers on the roster, and that size is something the Freeze has valued in his offenses of the past. According to WR coach Marcus Davis, Brown has the potential to be a leader in the locker room and to have a breakout sophomore season:
"“The first thing that comes to my mind on him is that he’s one of the ones that’s hungry,” wide receiver coach Marcus Davis said. “He wants to get better. And he’s a younger guy. He’s a good person to have in your room.”"
Spring practice means that it’s still early, and if the quarterbacks can improve before the fall there’s no doubt that the receivers will follow.