Linebacker Bryce Deas, running back Omar Mabson II and edge rusher Jared Smith among newcomers earning praise from Hugh Freeze after first week.

Mabson joined the roster a year earlier than anticipated after reclassifying to the 2025 recruiting class and is quickly making strides with his new team. Freeze went on to say that Mabson is hard to tackle due to his 5-9, 213-pound frame and is great at finishing runs.

Auburn Tigers head coach Hugh Freeze enters a pivotal year in his tenure on The Plains. Athletic Director John Cohen laid out three keys he's evaluating in 2025.