The Auburn Tigers football program has recently achieved a significant milestone by securing commitments from three highly coveted five-star quarterbacks: Jackson Arnold, Deuce Knight, and Keelon Russell. This strategic move not only strengthens Auburn’s quarterback depth but also positions the team as a formidable contender in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and on the national stage.
Jackson Arnold’s Transfer to Auburn
Jackson Arnold, a five-star quarterback prospect from the Class of 2023, transferred to Auburn after two seasons at Oklahoma. At Oklahoma, Arnold started and lost his position in the 2024 season but reclaimed it, contributing to a 6-6 season with notable stats including completing 62.6% of his passes for 1,421 yards and rushing for 444 yards. Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze praised Arnold’s fit for their offense, particularly his skill in the RPO system and accurate deep throws. Freeze anticipates Arnold will bring a winning mentality and on-field swagger to Auburn’s program. citeturn0news11
Deuce Knight’s Commitment
Deuce Knight, a highly sought-after quarterback from Lucedale, Mississippi, flipped his commitment from Notre Dame to Auburn in October 2024. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 210 pounds, Knight had been committed to Notre Dame since September 2023. His decision to join Auburn was influenced by the potential delay in his playing opportunity at Notre Dame, given that if C.J. Carr proved to be a strong player, Knight would only get a starting chance by 2027. Knight’s commitment significantly bolstered Auburn’s recruiting class, which was ranked No. 3 nationally at the time. citeturn0search2
Keelon Russell’s Commitment
In December 2024, Keelon Russell, a five-star quarterback from Duncanville, Texas, committed to Auburn over offers from top programs, including Michigan. Russell, known for his strong arm and impressive accuracy, brings exceptional talent and leadership to the Tigers. His decision to join Auburn signals his belief in what head coach Hugh Freeze is building with the program. Russell’s commitment is a significant boost to Auburn’s recruiting class and solidifies their position as a rising contender in college football. citeturn0search3
Impact on Auburn’s Program
The addition of these three five-star quarterbacks marks a turning point for Auburn as they continue to rebuild their football program under head coach Hugh Freeze. The Tigers have made significant strides in reshaping their roster and recruiting efforts, with Arnold, Knight, and Russell representing the future of Auburn football. Their commitments are expected to have a domino effect on future recruiting, attracting other top-tier players to join a program on the rise.
