Jaylin Simpson’s eyebrows raised, and a smile illuminated his face. While attending Auburn’s bowl practices, he witnessed Keionte Scott’s move from nickel to outside cornerback, a strategic adjustment to compensate for the opt-outs by D.J. James and Nehemiah Pritchett. Scott, outlining his plan to remain at cornerback for his final college season in 2024, surprised Simpson when he learned the move was permanent.
Expressing his surprise, Simpson remarked, “He did? I didn’t even know that.” In Mobile this week, Simpson, gesturing towards NFL draft prospects around him after a Senior Bowl practice, stated, “He could come out here and play any position right now.”
Auburn pins its hopes on Scott having a standout season in 2024, aiming for NFL selection. Despite transitioning positions within the secondary, Scott is poised to be the unequivocal leader after four starters, including Simpson, Zion Puckett, James, and Pritchett, head to the pros. The departure of veteran Donovan Kaufman to the transfer portal adds complexity to Auburn’s secondary.
Scott’s decision to stay, after initial reports of a potential transfer, brought relief to Auburn. His return means the Tigers won’t face dire challenges in the secondary, with Scott emerging as the leading tackler over the past two seasons. The move from nickel to the outside presents an opportunity for Scott to showcase versatility for NFL scouts, aligning with Auburn’s need at cornerback with the impending draft of James and Pritchett.
Teammate Simpson praises Scott’s abilities, declaring him an “All-SEC player.” Having played cornerback as a JUCO All-American at Snow College before joining Auburn, Scott looks forward to demonstrating increased versatility for NFL consideration.
However, Scott’s shift and Kaufman’s departure raise questions at nickel for Auburn. Contenders like Champ Anthony and Caleb Wooden are expected to compete during spring practice. Kayin Lee, who started three games as a true freshman and served as the team’s No. 3 cornerback last season, is likely to pair with Scott at corner.
Under the guidance of returning cornerbacks coach Wesley McGriff and new assistant Charles Kelly, Auburn relies on Scott’s veteran presence to navigate a secondary that has transitioned from the most experienced to one of the least experienced groups on the team. Nehemiah Pritchett, speaking at the Senior Bowl, emphasizes Scott’s role as the “heartbeat of the secondary,” directing traffic and guiding younger players.
