Hugh Freeze has excelled in recruiting and transfer portal activity during his first two years at Auburn, but quarterback remains a lingering issue. Heading into his third season, Freeze appears set to start Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold, though highly touted freshman Deuce Knight is already pushing for playing time. Now, the situation may grow more complex with the potential addition of Troy transfer Matthew Caldwell.
Caldwell, a former Auburn High standout, has played for three different programs over four years and is reportedly looking to return home for his final season of eligibility. ON3.com has predicted Caldwell will transfer to Auburn. While he’s unlikely to contend for the starting job in the SEC, his presence could shake up the competition for the backup role behind Arnold.
Josh Boutwell of the Troy Messenger highlighted Caldwell’s potential transfer, especially since he’s the second quarterback to leave Troy this offseason. He took over as starter following an injury to Goose Crowder and ended the year with 1,608 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, eight interceptions, and five rushing scores. His standout game came against Georgia Southern, where he threw for 288 yards and two scores while adding two rushing touchdowns.
Meanwhile, Deuce Knight turned heads during Auburn’s Spring Game, showing flashes of potential that may have tightened the gap between him and Arnold. Although Knight still needs development, he’s viewed as a rising star—perhaps even more promising than the former five-star Arnold. Still, Freeze might favor Caldwell’s veteran experience, reminiscent of his earlier gamble on Payton Thorne, which failed to pan out.
If Caldwell does join Auburn, he may never take a snap, but his addition could clog an already crowded quarterback room. Auburn may benefit from having a fourth quarterback, but if Caldwell’s arrival blocks Knight’s progression, it could be a costly misstep for Freeze. With the spotlight on him to finally solve the QB dilemma, Freeze risks creating more confusion than clarity by continuing to stack options without settling on a clear direction.
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