Auburn’s quest to find the right quarterback through the Transfer Portal is far from over, and the Tigers have added another intriguing name to their list of potential signal-callers. According to Christian Clemente of Auburn Undercover, Auburn is set to host former Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold on Thursday, as the Tigers continue to search for their next starter under center.
Arnold, a former ESPN 5-star recruit and the No. 3 overall prospect in the 2023 class, has had an eventful start to his college career at Oklahoma. Despite being a highly touted recruit, Arnold is entering the transfer portal after an up-and-down 2024 season, which saw him briefly lose his starting job before making a strong case for his return. As Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze looks to reshape the Tigers’ offense, Arnold presents an intriguing option with his skill set and potential.
A Strong Foundation, But Inconsistent 2024
Arnold’s time at Oklahoma has been a mixed bag. After starting the first four games of the 2024 season, he was benched due to some inconsistent play. However, his resilience was on full display when he entered the game against South Carolina as a reserve. Arnold threw for 221 yards and a touchdown in that outing, showing his ability to step up when the team needed him. Following that performance, he regained the starting job and played well the rest of the season, showcasing his immense potential.
On the season, Arnold completed 154 of 246 passes (62.6%) for 1,410 yards, 12 touchdowns, and just 3 interceptions. His passing numbers are solid, but it’s his ability to create with his legs that makes Arnold such an exciting prospect. Arnold’s sack-adjusted rushing stats include 118 carries for 653 yards and 3 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per carry. His athleticism was on full display in a memorable performance against Alabama, where Arnold ran for 135 yards on 23 carries, helping Oklahoma upset the Crimson Tide 24-3.
Auburn’s Fit for Arnold
From a stylistic perspective, Arnold’s skill set fits perfectly with what Hugh Freeze and the Tigers are looking for in a quarterback. Arnold is known for his live arm and ability to improvise when plays break down—two key traits that Freeze values in his offensive scheme. Additionally, Arnold’s comfort with run-pass option (RPO) plays would mesh well with Freeze’s playbook, which often emphasizes quarterback mobility and dynamic decision-making in the open field.
The addition of Arnold would give Auburn another weapon at quarterback, someone capable of making plays with both his arm and his legs. While Arnold’s 2024 season wasn’t without its struggles, his potential as a dual-threat quarterback who can stretch the field both in the air and on the ground is undeniable.
The Mississippi State Factor
However, Auburn will not have an easy path in landing Arnold. One major contender for his services is Mississippi State, where Arnold has ties to head coach Jeff Lebby, who was a key figure in recruiting Arnold to Oklahoma. Lebby and Arnold worked closely together during his time in Norman, which gives Mississippi State an inside track in the recruitment battle. With former Bulldogs quarterback Michael Van Buren entering the transfer portal, the Bulldogs are likely to be one of the primary teams competing with Auburn for Arnold’s commitment.
Auburn’s visit from Arnold will be a critical one, as the Tigers look to make a lasting impression. The next few days will be crucial as Auburn attempts to secure their quarterback of the future. If Arnold were to commit, he would bring a much-needed dimension to the offense, especially given his dual-threat capabilities and familiarity with the style of play Freeze is trying to build.
The Road Ahead for Auburn
Auburn is facing a critical offseason as it prepares for the 2025 season. With multiple quarterbacks already in the Transfer Portal, the Tigers have several options, but Arnold could be the ideal candidate to lead the team moving forward. With his mix of arm strength, mobility, and ability to thrive in an RPO-heavy offense, Arnold is exactly the type of quarterback that could help Auburn compete in the SEC.
As Auburn continues to evaluate its options, the next few days will be pivotal in determining who leads the Tigers’ offense in 2025. Whether it’s Arnold or another transfer, Auburn’s quarterback search is one of the most important storylines to follow as the offseason unfolds.
