AUBURN, Ala. – From new coaches and players to an enhanced focus on team culture, Auburn kicked off spring practice this week heading into Hugh Freeze's second season on the Plains.
"There's been a lot of positive things in our building since January," Freeze said. "Many of those are coming from the player-led arena, which I love. I really think player-led teams are the best teams."
Auburn's 12-member culture council – elected by the team and comprised of running backs Damari Alston and Jarquez Hunter, tight end Luke Deal, quarterback Payton Thorne, offensive linemen Connor Lew and Dillon Wade, receiver Jay Fair, defensive linemen Jalen McLeod and Keldric Faulk, linebacker Eugene Asante and defensive backs Keionte Scott and Champ Anthony – helps set and maintain team standards, Freeze says.
"There's got to be accountability in every area, from the training table to academics to the way we approach work, our timeliness, our effort," he said. "I've been really pleased with the leadership I'm seeing from that group.
"That's the biggest difference I've seen so far. There's a different energy that comes with that. There's no compromise. We hold each other accountable."
Auburn practiced Tuesday and Thursday, taking the first steps into the 2024 season.
"The energy at practice Tuesday was really nice," Freeze said. "Excited about what I see heading into spring No. 2 for us."
Auburn introduced two new coordinators this spring: Derrick Nix on offense and DJ Durkin on defense, along with co-defensive coordinator Charles Kelly, quarterbacks coach Kent Austin and defensive tackles coach Vontrell King-Wiliams.
"I'm comfortable with Derrick Nix and Kent Austin," Freeze said. "They know my terminology. They've been with me before.
"DJ Durkin brings a vast amount of experience. It's the first defensive guy I've interviewed that I felt like he coached defense like we coach offense. He's so detailed and demands effort and energy. Really pleased with his leadership on that side."
While emphasizing that all starting positions are wide open, Freeze said Thorne will take the first practice reps among Auburn's quarterbacks.
"I think Payton has done an incredible job since January of taking a leadership role and setting the standard," Freeze said. "Do I think it's his to lose? Yes, but he's got to go earn it every day."
When selecting a starter, Freeze prioritizes limiting turnovers, decision-making, accuracy and leadership.
"You want that in your quarterback, that the huddle wants you in there," he said. "I'm looking for somebody to really earn that this spring and fall."
Nix, who also coaches Auburn's running backs, is a first-time offensive coordinator after spending 16 seasons at Ole Miss coaching receivers and running backs.
"Coach Nix has been awesome," Thorne said. "I've really enjoyed everything he's brought. The two words that stand out to me are urgency and energy. That's what I feel he's brought so far."
Auburn's spring practice contingent includes several early enrollees from the Tigers' seventh-ranked 2024 recruiting class, including five-star Cam Coleman.
"Cam Coleman makes us look different," Freeze said of the 6-foot-3 freshman. "Can't tell you how excited I am about him. We've improved ourselves. He's naturally gifted."
The Tigers will take next week off for Spring Break before resuming in early March for four weeks, culminating with A-Day on April 6.
"We'll really get down to business when we put the pads on when we return," Freeze said.
Jeff Shearer is a Senior Writer at AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jeff_shearer