Auburn football: 4 players who (probably) won’t be back in 2024

Oct 21, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers quarterback Robby Ashford (9) carries against the Mississippi Rebels during the second quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 21, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers quarterback Robby Ashford (9) carries against the Mississippi Rebels during the second quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
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Nov 4, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Jarquez Hunter (27) runs for a touchdown during the first half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 4, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Jarquez Hunter (27) runs for a touchdown during the first half against the Vanderbilt Commodores at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

2. Jarquez Hunter, junior

In his three seasons at Auburn, Hunter has been a hyper-efficient runner against SEC defenses. For his career, he’s averaging over six yards per carry and this season has racked up 745 yards and seven touchdowns through Week 11.

Hunter is a bit on the smaller side at 5-foot-10 210 pounds, but that’s plenty of size to survive in a downsizing NFL that values fast linebackers over thumpers who could give him issues. Teams will be interested, especially if he tests well at the combine.

Running backs should always make the jump to the NFL early to preserve their body in hopes of reaching a second contract. There will be plenty of people around Hunter advising him to enter the draft, so I’d be surprised to see him back at Auburn in 2024.