It's said that one of the most critical responsibilities of a college football head coach nowadays is continually recruiting your own team. With the introduction of the transfer portal and NIL, coaches must keep their players satisfied and not looking for greener pastures elsewhere.
That will be especially true for whoever Auburn hires as its next head coach. There are some talented players on the Tigers' roster who will certainly be targeted by other schools. For the next head man in charge, keeping these individuals on the Plains will be crucial to achieving success in the first year of his tenure.
Here are the five most critical Auburn offensive players that the next head coach will want to prioritize and keep on the roster.
Cam Coleman (WR)
This one is a layup, as Coleman has continually shown why he's one of the best wide receivers in college football. With his exceptional talent and playmaking ability, other programs will likely offer him a substantial amount of NIL money, emphasizing offensive stability and winning championships.
Deuce Knight (QB)
Will he be the guy behind center for the Tigers next season? You have to give him the chance after redshirting this season. He has all the tools and smarts to be a successful college quarterback. You definitely don't want to see him succeed somewhere else.
Jeremiah Cobb (RB)
When utilized, Cobb has been one of the few constants on Auburn's offense and will likely top the 1,000-yard mark in the next two games. He brings leadership and stability to the locker room, something a new coach will need in his first season.
Alvin Henderson (RB)
Much like Knight, Henderson is unproven, but he has the tools to become the next great Auburn running back. With Cobb and Omar Mabson in the same backfield, he could provide the third option. However, if he sees a crowded backfield, he might want to take his chances elsewhere. I still think he's a massive priority in keeping.
Eric Singleton Jr. (WR)
The Georgia Tech transfer has been solid despite a woeful passing game, finally breaking out this past week against Vanderbilt with 11 catches for 102 yards and a touchdown. Give him the right quarterback and offensive playcaller, and Singleton will be a legit threat to break 1,000 yards receiving next season.
Other top targets: Malcolm Simmons (WR), Perry Thompson (WR), Connor Lew (C),