Coming in at number five is defensive lineman Marcus Harris. Harris had a good last season for the Tigers and is looking to have an even better year in 2022. The former Kansas Jayhawk earned a starting spot in his first season as a Tiger. Harris has put on about 15 lbs this offseason so he’s sure to be more of a force on the inside. Harris put up 27 tackles, 6 TFLs, and 2 sacks last season. I believe we will see a significant boost in his stats, despite having an upgraded defensive line room.

#4. Colby Wooden, DL, (RS) Junior

At number four on the list is a two-year starter and All-SEC 2nd team member Colby Wooden. Wooden is a guy who’s put on a lot of muscle and has shown the versatility to play all across the defensive line. Colby Wooden reminds me a lot of former Auburn Tiger and current New York Jet Carl Lawson. I think Wooden’s prime position is a 4-3 defensive end. However, Wooden has played every position on the defensive line at one point in his Auburn career. Colby Wooden posted 61 tackles, 8.5 TFLs, and 5 sacks last season for the Tigers.

#3. Tank Bigsby, RB, Junior

Running back “Tank” Bigsby checks in at number three on the list. Bigsby has consistently been one of the best backs in the SEC since his freshman year. Despite the recent offensive line struggle for the Tigers, Bigsby still gained a 1,000-yard rushing season last year. Bigsby was very close to leaving the program last season, but eventually returned to the program and has shown his commitment to the Tigers. Bigsby numbers may go down this year because of 2nd-year back Jarquez Hunter. However, Bigsby is a surefire NFL back and will no doubt be playing on Sundays in the future.

#2. Derick Hall, EDGE, Senior

In the runner-up spot for the best player on my list is All-American edge rusher, Derick Hall. There’s so much you can say about Derick Hall, he’s a leader in the locker room and a menace on the field. Hall is no doubt the best defensive lineman for the Tigers and would probably be the best in the SEC if it weren’t for Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. Hall has improved so much throughout his career at Auburn and is expected to have a great senior season. There are not many guarantees in life, but one of them is Derick Hall will be playing on Sundays.  Derick Hall posted 52 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, and 9.5 sacks for Auburn last season.

#1. Owen Pappoe, LB, Senior

Coming in at the number one spot on my list is perhaps the most talented Auburn recruit of all-time linebacker Owen Pappoe. Pappoe had his 2021 season derailed by injuries and that hurt the Tigers’ defense. Now Pappoe comes into the new season healthy and as a captain. Pappoe has been a starter since arriving on the plains in 2019. The former five-star has been impressive his entire career and now that he’s had a full offseason to recover. Expect Owen Pappoe to have a huge season and to hear his name called in the 2023 NFL Draft. Pappoe recorded 23 tackles and 3 TFLs in just four games last season.

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