Hugh Freeze says Jarquez Hunter's status 'will not be discussed publicly'

Back in May, Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter came under some hot water over an inappropriate video featuring himself. Since then, there’s been very little public comment on Hunter or his situation and that trend continued to start this month. At recent media availability, new Tiger head coach Hugh Freeze was asked again about Hunter and his status. To which Freeze gave another tight-lipped response:

“I’ll say this again. I understand the question, but matters related to team rules and procedures… they are handled internally and will not be discussed publicly,” said Freeze.

So there you have it. Less than a month out from the start of the year and Auburn RB Jarquez Hunter’s status is still completely unknown to fans and media.

More on Hunter

Back at SEC Media Days a few weeks ago, Freeze first spoke on the situation with Hunter, noting: “I can’t comment on university policies and procedures.” A sentiment he’s upheld.

When asked if any other football players other than Hunter faced punishment, Freeze repeated the same answer, pointing to university policies and procedures.

Auburn University released a general statement in May regarding student-athletes being suspended while the university investigated a specific matter that involved Hunter and other football players.

The university hasn’t released any additional statements regarding the subject.

Hunter is one of the top players on the Auburn roster this season, coming in at No. 56 in On3’s Top 100 College Football Player in 2023 this week. He totaled 668 yards and seven touchdowns, which ranked third on the team behind Tank Bigsby and Robby Ashford.

Hunter was also one of Auburn’s top performers during spring practice and came in as one of the 10 offensive spring practice standouts you need to know, according to On3’s Matt Zenitz. He’ll try to play a major role for the Tigers, who underwent a wave of change this offseason.

Hunter enters his junior season with 1,261 career yards and 10 touchdowns. He averaged over six yards per carry during his first two seasons at Auburn backing up Tank Bigsby. Bigsby, of course, was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft.

Back in early April, new Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze threw out a big-time compliment for his new running back. “I think Jarquez is special,” Freeze said. “I do, I think he’s probably the best running back I’ve ever coached, truthfully.” That’s how impressive Hunter was during the spring for the Tigers. After contributing as Tank Bigsby’s backup the last two seasons, Hunter now has a chance to show what he can do as Auburn’s No. 1 back. The Tigers’ staff is expecting a big year from him. One Tigers source said Hunter may be the best player on Auburn’s team.