Returning both of its starters on the outside from a season ago, and adding quality depth through the transfer portal and high school ranks, Auburn’s secondary has quickly become one of the deepest and most talented position groups on the roster heading into 2025.
Cornerbacks coach Wesley McGriff has seen the growth from guys like Kayin Lee and Jay Crawford, and believes their veteran leadership has paved the way for the group’s success.
“The biggest thing about the vets in that room is that they are reaching out to the younger guys. Making sure Donovan Starr, Blake Woodby and those guys understand exactly how things should be done,” McGriff said.
Crawford, an SEC all-freshman first-team selection after posting 15 tackles and seven pass breakups last season after being thrust into a starting role, and Lee, who logged 32 tackles and seven pass breakups as a starter, form a formidable tandem outside – perhaps the best in the conference.
But McGriff knows that there’s a tough stretch that lies ahead, especially playing in the SEC.
“We’re not going to let them have that mindset of ‘I’ve arrived.’ Because we have not arrived,” McGriff said. “We have to get ready for competition. And you know how tough this league is. The biggest enemy you face in this league is yourself.”
Lee and Crawford will be complemented by freshmen Woodby and Starr, who are oozing with talent – both coming in as former four-star recruits.
“It’s a blessing to have those young guys because they’re going to be impact players as we go along,” McGriff said.
In addition, the veteran cornerbacks coach brought in some key pieces in Rayshawn Pleasant and Raion Strader. Pleasant saw action in 13 games at Tulane a season ago, posting 35 tackles – 27 solo – and is primed to be a big contributor in the return game as well. Strader, who may be getting overlooked in such a talented room, makes his way to the Plains after a standout campaign at Miami (OH). The 2024 MAC Cornerback of the Year and 2023 freshman All-American by College Football News and FWAA, will make his debut in orange and blue with 110 tackles, three interceptions and 42 pass breakups under his belt.
But again, McGriff knows complacency is a recipe for disaster and is determined to keep them on an upward trajectory.
“Nobody has arrived. We have some good players. But the way they got good is by practicing. By taking reps. By playing with very good intentions. By being urgent. That’s just a part of that DNA,” McGriff said. “They understand how important it is to continue trending (up) and how important every rep is.”
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