Former Auburn Tigers Offensive Lineman Percy Lewis Circles Back to Mississippi
Percy Lewis, a name that once echoed through the stadiums at Auburn University, has made an unexpected but welcomed return to his roots in Mississippi. After several years spent in the spotlight as an offensive lineman for the Auburn Tigers, Lewis finds himself on a journey that brings him back to his home state. His story is not just about football, but also about personal growth, determination, and the pursuit of redemption.
Early Years: A Mississippi Native
Born and raised in Mississippi, Percy Lewis was no stranger to hard work and perseverance. Growing up in a small town, he learned the value of discipline from an early age. His family’s values and the close-knit community instilled in him the importance of integrity and effort. His high school years at Greenville High School showcased his raw athletic talent, and it wasn’t long before college recruiters began to take notice.
Lewis was a force on the field, dominating as an offensive tackle. His towering 6’7″ frame, combined with a rare blend of agility and strength, made him a standout player. This talent, however, was just the beginning. What truly set him apart was his work ethic and drive. Even during his high school years, Lewis displayed a hunger for improvement that promised a bright future in college football.
Auburn Tigers: The College Journey
Percy Lewis’s recruitment journey led him to Auburn University, one of the Southeastern Conference’s most prestigious football programs. Auburn, known for its competitive football culture and rich history, provided the perfect environment for a young player like Lewis to hone his skills.
Lewis joined the Tigers’ football program with high expectations, and though the transition to college football was challenging, he quickly adapted to the physical demands of playing at the highest level. As an offensive lineman, his primary responsibility was to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for the backs. While these may sound like simple tasks on paper, the complexity of the game at the college level quickly became apparent to him.
His first couple of seasons at Auburn were marked by growth. Lewis made the switch from being a promising high school prospect to a key contributor in a competitive collegiate program. During these early years, he experienced both the highs and lows of college football—winning games and taking losses that taught him valuable lessons about teamwork, humility, and resilience.
However, not all was smooth sailing. Like many players, Lewis faced obstacles beyond the football field. The pressures of balancing academics, athletics, and personal life took their toll. It was a difficult adjustment for a young man far from home. Still, through determination and support from coaches and teammates, Lewis made it through.
One of the most memorable moments of his Auburn career came during his junior year, when Lewis became a full-time starter on the offensive line. His presence was felt immediately; his size and strength were assets that helped solidify the Tigers’ offensive line. His improvement was notable, and his ability to shut down defenders with ease earned him recognition among his peers, coaches, and analysts.
Challenges and Setbacks
Despite his obvious talent, Percy Lewis faced several setbacks during his time at Auburn. The expectations that came with playing at a major SEC school meant that mistakes were magnified. In addition to the physical demands of the game, Lewis struggled with some off-field issues that ultimately led to him leaving the program after a few seasons.
For a time, it seemed as though his career in football might come to an abrupt end. The combination of personal challenges and football-related setbacks forced him to reconsider his future in the sport. It was a tough moment for Lewis, who had poured so much into his dream of playing at the highest level. Yet, the adversity didn’t break him; instead, it sparked a fire within him to take control of his destiny and reclaim his place in the football world.
Returning to Mississippi: A New Beginning
Percy Lewis’s decision to leave Auburn did not mark the end of his football journey. Instead, it became a period of self-reflection and growth. After taking some time off from football to focus on his personal life, Lewis realized that he still had a love for the game and the ability to make an impact on the field. However, he knew that he would need a fresh start—one that would allow him to not only rekindle his football career but also address the personal challenges he had faced.
This realization led him to return to Mississippi, where he began working out and training with a renewed sense of purpose. Back in his home state, Lewis reconnected with old mentors and coaches who had seen his potential from the start. They encouraged him to return to football, and they supported his decision to explore options for continuing his playing career. His return to Mississippi was more than just a geographical move—it symbolized a return to his roots, to the support system that had always believed in him, and to a second chance.
As he trained, Lewis found a renewed sense of confidence. He worked tirelessly to refine his skills and improve his technique. He focused on maintaining his physical health and mental well-being, understanding that both were essential for achieving success. Lewis’ journey back to football was a testament to his resilience and his unwavering desire to prove that he still had something to offer.
The Road Ahead
With his time at Auburn behind him and a new chapter unfolding, Percy Lewis began to explore opportunities for playing football again. His decision to stay in Mississippi opened the door to several local football leagues, and he quickly became a force to be reckoned with. His strength, size, and leadership skills were in high demand, and soon enough, he found himself being recruited by smaller programs eager to add a seasoned offensive lineman to their roster.
While these leagues might not offer the national spotlight of major college football or the NFL, they provided a platform for Lewis to showcase his skills and continue his passion for the sport. His journey, however, wasn’t just about football anymore. It was about redemption, personal growth, and the chance to inspire others who might be facing similar struggles. Lewis’ story was one of perseverance—proving that even after setbacks, it’s never too late to rewrite your story.
Percy Lewis now has the chance to guide the next generation of players in Mississippi, whether as a mentor, coach, or player. His journey back to his home state is more than a return to familiar surroundings; it’s a return to the core values that first made him successful: hard work, humility, and dedication. His life is an example of how setbacks do not define a person, but rather, it is how one responds to those challenges that truly matters.
