The Auburn Tigers faced a major issue in 2024, specifically at the most critical position in football: quarterback. As they prepare for the 2025 season, they aim to resolve this problem with three strong candidates vying for the starting role. The upcoming quarterback battle will be a key storyline heading into spring practice.
Auburn struggled at quarterback last season, with Payton Thorne, a transfer from Michigan State, receiving most of the starts under head coach Hugh Freeze. However, the Tigers have completely reset their quarterback room, as they do not have any returning scholarship quarterbacks from the 2023-24 season.
To address this, Auburn secured three potential options through the transfer portal and recruiting. The first notable addition is Jackson Arnold, a former Oklahoma quarterback. Arnold, a highly regarded five-star recruit coming out of high school, spent two seasons with the Sooners before entering the transfer portal. He is ranked as the 47th-best player overall and the eighth-best quarterback in the portal. Given his experience and pedigree, Arnold is considered the favorite to win the starting job.
Auburn also brought in Ashton Daniels, a transfer from Stanford. Daniels played three seasons with the Cardinal before committing to the Tigers. While he does not have the same level of recognition as Arnold, he is still ranked as the 83rd-best quarterback available. What sets Daniels apart is his ability to make plays with his legs, which could make him a compelling option for Auburn’s coaching staff.
The final addition to the quarterback competition is highly rated freshman Deuce Knight. Considered the fifth-best quarterback and the No. 25 overall prospect in his recruiting class, Knight initially committed to Notre Dame before flipping to Auburn. Despite being a true freshman, he will have the opportunity to showcase his talent during spring practices and prove why he was one of the top high school quarterbacks in the nation.
With Arnold, Daniels, and Knight competing for the starting job, Auburn’s quarterback situation will be a key storyline leading into the 2025 season.