Football

Auburn’s PFF Countdown: No. 16–13

Published

August 5, 2025

As we top end of the top 40 in our Auburn PFF Countdown, four more Tigers take center stage for their impact and production heading into the 2025 season. We tackle No. 16-13. This group features a pair of dynamic Wide Receivers, a RB and a back up QB.

#16 – Damari Alston, RB (Senior)

AUBURN, AL – NOVEMBER 16 – Auburn Running Back Damari Alston (0) during the game between the Auburn Tigers and the Louisiana Monroe Warhawks at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, AL on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. Photo by Noelle Iglesias/Auburn Tigers

Damari Alston leads off this list as the projected starting running back for Auburn. He logged 167 snaps in 2024 with a 70.5 overall PFF grade. While his rushing ability (5.1 YPC, 3 TDs) and elite pass blocking grade (81.1) give him an edge in a crowded RB room, fumble issues (39.1 grade) continue to be a concern. Alston’s contact balance and receiving skills (68.0 grade) make him the most complete back on the roster, assuming he can stay healthy and hold onto the ball.

I have been effusive in my praise for Alston and think he has a chance to really have a break out season. He should get his opportunities for the first time in college to be “the guy.” However, Alston is going to have to make sure that he makes every rep count. There is no shortage of talent in that room.

#15 – Eric Singleton Jr., WR (Transfer from Georgia Tech)

AUBURN, AL - July 30, 2025 - Auburn Wide Receiver Eric Singleton (#1) during practice at the Woltosz Football Performance Center in Auburn, AL.

Auburn’s PFF Countdown: No. 16–13 — Photo by Austin Perryman

A transfer from Georgia Tech, Singleton brings speed, versatility, and sure hands. His 71.3 PFF grade last season includes 754 receiving yards and just 4 drops on 90 targets. He also had 135 rushing yards on 20 carries, showing off his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Expect him to line up all over the field and be a nightmare in space.

#14 – Malcolm Simmons, WR (Sophomore)

AUBURN, AL - March 27, 2025 - Auburn Wide Receiver Malcolm Simmons (#4) during spring practice at the Woltosz Football Performance Center in Auburn, AL.

Auburn’s PFF Countdown: No. 16–13 — Photo by Austin Perryman

Another burner, Simmons posted a 71.6 overall PFF grade with dynamic speed and a knack for making defenders miss. Despite a 65.6 drop grade (4 drops on 49 targets), he poses a big-play threat and helps stretch defenses horizontally in Freeze’s scheme. His 7.7 YPC on limited rushing attempts hints at his gadget potential.

#13 – Ashton Daniels, QB (Transfer from Stanford)

The Stanford transfer brings experience (597 snaps) and dual-threat ability. Daniels earned a 71.7 overall grade with a strong 71.2 rushing mark. He’s a likely Wildcat QB option this season but must improve ball security after seven fumbles in 2024. Still, he provides a reliable “break glass in case of emergency” role behind Jackson Arnold.

Stay locked in with The War Rapport as we continue marching toward the top 10.