Overview

• Eric Singleton Jr., a Georgia Tech transfer, has been named Auburn’s frontrunner at punt returner after showing consistent ability to secure difficult catches.
• Tulane transfer Rayshawn Pleasant has stood out as a kick-return option after he returned two kicks for touchdowns last season and earned preseason All-American honors.
• A three-way battle at kicker features Alex McPherson, Towns McGough and Connor Gibbs, with coaches open to allocating short and long field-goal or kickoff duties situationally.
• Transfer punter Hudson Kaak and veteran long-snapper Reed Hughes appear poised to start, providing early stability for Auburn’s special teams.
• Additional return candidates like Malcolm Simmons and Bryce Cain remain under evaluation, with coaches prioritizing ball security and field-position traits before finalizing roles.