Auburn supporters can anticipate significant enhancements in the team’s passing game. Despite a disappointing showing in 2023, there’s optimism due to numerous changes in the roster. Although players such as Jay Fair (with 31 receptions, 324 yards, and 2 touchdowns) and Ja’Varrius Johnson (with 19 receptions, 347 yards, and 3 touchdowns) are departing, the depth chart for wide receivers overall is much stronger compared to the previous season.
In 2024, among several factors contributing to the Tigers’ anticipated aerial success, three stand out prominently. Firstly, the influx of wide receiver talent onto the 2024 roster, spearheaded by successful acquisitions from the Transfer Portal, marks a significant improvement. A notable addition is former Georgia State receiver Robert Lewis, whose impressive performance in the previous season, as per PFF, saw him secure 70 catches, accumulate 877 yards, and score 7 touchdowns. Despite transitioning to a higher level of competition, Lewis’s reliability, demonstrated by his consistent performance with at least two receptions in every game in 2023, adds considerable depth to the team.
Moreover, Lewis has demonstrated his ability to shine in pivotal moments, exemplified by his standout performance against Charlotte, where he recorded 6 receptions, amassed 220 yards, and scored two touchdowns. His exceptional athleticism and knack for making impactful plays will undoubtedly bolster the Tigers’ offense in any matchup, amplifying the anticipation among fans for his contributions.
Additionally, the recent addition of former Penn State receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith further amplifies the excitement among Tigers supporters. Lambert-Smith, renowned for his speed and elusiveness, showcased his playmaking prowess even within what some consider a lackluster passing attack at PSU, amassing 53 receptions, 674 yards, and 4 touchdowns in 2023. The combination of Lewis and Lambert-Smith now furnishes Auburn with two established targets for quarterback Payton Thorne, augmenting the team’s passing arsenal significantly.
Despite these notable acquisitions, the Tigers’ roster enhancements for the upcoming season extend beyond just these additions.
While he’s been recovering from injury, Sam Jackson V is an explosive athlete that grew up playing with Thorne in Illinois. He’s going to have his moments this fall, too. Overall, Auburn’s wide receiver room has more speed and talent from the upperclassmen ranks than it did one year ago.
2) Here come the freshmen!
The much-anticipated arrival of Bryce Cain, Malcolm Simmons, Perry Thompson, and Cam Coleman. While a group of freshmen typically do not make a big impact, all four of these young men can truly play. It’s the best wide receiver recruiting haul in Auburn history.
Coleman and Cain have already showcased their skills during spring practice after enrolling at Auburn. Coleman, in particular, is emerging as a top deep threat and is vying for the coveted No. 1 receiver spot, a sentiment echoed by several members of the Auburn media who have witnessed his performances this spring.
Cain’s agility and speed make him a formidable slot receiver, virtually unstoppable in open space. Following an impressive showing in spring practice, expect Cain to make some electrifying plays in the upcoming season.
Thompson and Simmons bring remarkable athleticism to the table and are poised to compete for playing time this fall. It’s highly probable that both will see significant action on the field. While this group of receivers is expected to play crucial roles, it’s important not to overlook the impact that Hugh Freeze and his coaching staff can have in devising strategies to utilize the talents of the incoming freshmen receivers. Their guidance will be instrumental in helping these young players find their footing and contribute effectively to the team.
Auburn welcomes talented new players, including a reliable tight end. Rivaldo Fairweather, despite facing intense defensive attention, had an impressive 2023 season with 33 catches, 349 yards, and 6 touchdowns, making him a standout fifth-year senior poised for NFL success. His ongoing improvement and evident motivation are key factors. During spring practice, Fairweather consistently posed matchup challenges for defenders due to his size advantage over defensive backs and superior athleticism compared to most linebackers. His ability to make contested catches and run routes with finesse belies his imposing physical stature of 6 feet 4 inches and 251 pounds.
