Auburn and head coach Hugh Freeze are heading into a critical year in his tenure. Freeze enters the 2025-26 season with an 11-14 record over his first two years, with the team finishing below .500 both seasons.
The transfer portal has played a major role in Auburn’s efforts to boost its roster. So far, the Tigers have added notable players like Jackson Arnold and Eric Singleton. But talent acquisition hasn’t stopped there—on Wednesday, Auburn secured another key commitment in Tulane transfer cornerback Rayshawn Pleasant.
Pleasant is a strong defensive addition, having tallied 35 tackles and an interception last season. However, his real impact comes on special teams. He earned All-American honors as a kick returner, racking up 449 yards and 2 touchdowns on just 13 returns.
Offensive struggles have plagued Auburn under Freeze, and while new additions aim to address those issues, a dynamic returner like Pleasant can help the offense by consistently improving field position.
With the transfer portal in full swing, teams are scrambling to solidify their rosters for next season. Landing a game-changer like Pleasant is a significant win for Freeze and the Tigers.