With the NFL draft steadily coming closer -- and having finally gotten to read Daniel Jeremiah’s 2025 3,0 mock draft -- it got me thinking about what Auburn Tigers could be taken later after the first-round shenanigans.
Here's who I got:
Jarquez Hunter, RB
When the first round is done and running backs like Omarion Hampton, Cam Skattebo and Ashton Jeanty are off the board, many don’t realize a 1,200-yard SEC rusher would still be on the board; one with big play potential and capable of being the bell cow for an NFL team.
Jarquez Hunter is a gem in the second round and the team that drafts him will be very happy with the production they'll get.
Blowing up Week 9 of the 2024 season with a 23-carry outing for 278 yard and two-touchdown day on a Kentucky team that beat Ole Miss earlier in the campaign.
I think there are multiple teams that would be in on drafting Hunter in the second round,
The Cardinals, Packers, and Chiefs all need a running back desperately and one that can develope quickly into the bell cow role. Hunter fits that with his power running style combined with his burst through the hole capability.
Personally, I think the Packers are the better fit and who I think would and should draft him.
Jalen McLeod, Edge/OLB
Jalen took off this year having the best season of his career, amassing total tackles and 8 sacks with 40 solo tackles. Combined, in his two years at the program he had 106 tackles and 14 sacks. His versatility at the outside linebacker position can aid a lot of teams but some people will say he’s a late day three pick.
Not so fast, because I think there is a team in the second round who would be willing to take him.
The Buffalo Bills at No. 62.
After drafting Kenneth Grant in the first round out of Michigan per Dj's mock draft I believe the Bills bolster their defense even more by drafting McLeod. He takes on a role that you wanted Von Miller to fill. Jalen covers the pass well, he attacks the ball, and he has the ability to rush the passer.
Not to mention, he can be molded by Matt Milano who’s been very injury prone as of late. He also fills their need for a pass rusher even though signed Michael Hoecht, which has since turned sour.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith, WR
After a disappointing 2023 season at Penn State, the senior X Receiver didn’t disappoint at Auburn for his 2024 season. Going from a 56.7 PFF rating during KLS’ four years at Penn State to an outstanding 74.3 PFF rating this year at Auburn as the No.1 guy.
That tells NFL team that he can carry the load of being in No.1 situations. That gets you drafted.
KLS' stats at the NFL Combine weren't bad either posting up one of the fastest 40-yard dash times. A height of six-foot-one, and 190-pound weight so there is room for him to gain NFL pro weight, a good wing span, and arm size all contribute to being rated one of the better day two deep threats in the draft.
His ability to take the top off a defense and ability to create space would help quite a few teams and he might even pique the interest of one team in particular in the second round.
Enter the New Orleans Saints pick no. 40.
The Saints are perfect for KLS, They need a wideout after picking Jihaad Campbell with their first pick at no. 9. Especially one that can take the top off the defense so Chris Olave isn't the only one having to be guarded.
Some experts might say it would be too early to draft KeAndre, but given the Saints' desperate need for young talent, he would be a welcomed addition in the Big Easy.