Tigers running back Jarquez Hunter expected to take on a bigger role this season

Hunter is working hard this offseason in hopes to become one of the SEC’s top backs.

[autotag]Jarquez Hunter[/autotag] is one of the most exciting players on Auburn’s roster heading into the 2023 season.

It is an important season for the Tigers, as head coach [autotag]Hugh Freeze[/autotag] will set out to prove that he is capable of returning Auburn to its place as a perennial contender in the SEC West.

Hunter is expected to carry a heavier load this season after playing alongside [autotag]Tank Bigsby[/autotag] for his first two years with the program.

In an AL.com article written by Ainslie Lee, quotes from [autotag]Brad Lester[/autotag], one of Hunter’s trainers and a former Auburn running back, are included.

“He’s that hard of a worker and that mentally tough, which says a lot about him because a lot of players can’t do that,” Lester said.

Hunter has been training with Lester multiple times a week and it is making an impact.

“I felt like he was so dominant as a downhill runner and a power runner last year, the biggest thing we’ve been working on these past few weeks is his open-field moves, pass protection… just things to add to his game,” Lester said. “He’s already probably one of the better running backs I’ve ever worked with.”

Lester has drawn some comparisons between Hunter and Bigsby, despite the two ball carriers having different styles of play.

“Mental toughness and effort,” Lester said. “Those two things you cannot coach. And those are two things that both Hunter and Tank both have.”

Football season is right around the corner and Hunter is excited about the opportunity to lead Auburn’s offense on the ground.

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