In a bold and inspiring move that speaks volumes about loyalty, unfinished business, and personal growth, Auburn Tigers running back Damari Alston has officially announced that he will forego the NFL Draft and return to Auburn for his senior season. The announcement comes at a time when many projected Alston as a solid mid-round draft pick, but the talented back had other plans — ones that involve leadership, legacy, and one final ride on the Plains.
Speaking at a press conference surrounded by teammates and coaching staff, Alston revealed that the decision wasn’t made lightly. “I prayed about it, talked with my family, and spoke at length with Coach Freeze,” Alston said. “This program means everything to me. I’m not done here. We’ve got goals left to accomplish, and I want to be a part of that. I want to leave Auburn better than I found it.”
Alston’s return is a massive boost for the Auburn offense. Known for his explosive speed, vision, and workhorse mentality, he led the Tigers in rushing yards last season while also playing a pivotal role in the team’s locker room chemistry. His decision to return instantly makes Auburn one of the more experienced backfields in the SEC, setting the tone for a potentially breakout season.
Throughout his collegiate career, Alston has been a model of consistency. Whether fighting for tough yards in the red zone or breaking long gains in open space, he has delivered time and time again. Beyond the numbers, however, it’s his leadership and presence that have defined his Auburn tenure. Teammates often describe him as “the heart of the offense” and “a big brother figure” to younger players.
While many expected him to declare for the draft, especially following a strong junior season that saw him rack up over 1,100 total yards and 12 touchdowns, Alston’s return signals a deeper connection to Auburn’s culture and a clear focus on legacy. “I’ve always said that Auburn is more than just football,” he added. “This is home. This is family. I want to walk away from this program knowing I gave it everything — not just to the game, but to the people.”
Head coach Hugh Freeze was quick to praise Alston’s decision, noting the ripple effect it will have on the entire team. “Damari is a cornerstone of our culture,” Freeze said. “His decision to return sends a message to everyone — that this is a program worth building, worth staying for. We couldn’t be more excited to have him back for one more season.”
From a draft perspective, Alston’s return may also enhance his stock. Scouts have always been high on his physical attributes and versatility, but another year in college gives him the opportunity to fine-tune his skills, improve his pass protection, and further showcase his value in both the rushing and receiving game. If all goes well, he could see his draft projection rise significantly.
Off the field, Alston has been equally impactful. He’s active in Auburn’s community outreach programs, mentoring local youth, and advocating for student-athlete mental health. His return means more than just wins and stats; it brings continuity and leadership to a young roster that’s looking to take the next step in the competitive SEC landscape.
As Auburn eyes a strong 2025 season, fans can rest easy knowing that their offensive leader will be back in the backfield. Damari Alston’s return symbolizes more than a player choosing to stay — it represents a belief in Auburn’s future, a commitment to the process, and a heartfelt promise to finish what he started.
With offseason training now in full swing, Alston is already back in action, leading by example and preparing for what could be a storybook senior year. Whether it’s chasing a conference title, building his NFL résumé, or simply inspiring the next generation of Auburn Tigers, Damari Alston’s presence will be felt every step of the way.
In an era where players often chase the next big opportunity, Alston’s decision is a powerful reminder that loyalty, leadership, and love for the game still matter. Auburn fans everywhere will be watching closely, cheering for the senior who chose family, legacy, and one last chapter in the orange and blue.
