Electric Addition on the Plains: All-American Kick Returner and Shutdown Corner Rayshawn Pleasant Commits to Auburn, Bringing Speed, Swagger, and Star Power from Tulane
The Auburn Tigers just got faster, stronger, and a whole lot more dangerous on both defense and special teams.
Rayshawn Pleasant, the explosive cornerback and All-American kick returner from Tulane, has officially committed to Auburn University, delivering a major boost to Hugh Freeze’s 2025 roster. A standout on one of the top twenty pass defenses in the country last season, Pleasant brings elite speed, sharp instincts, and game-breaking return ability to the Plains.
Star Power From the AAC
The 5’11” defensive back made waves during his time at Tulane, finishing last season with 35 total tackles, 1 interception, and countless plays that altered field position. His performance earned him national recognition, with Phil Steele naming him an All-American kick returner — a title few in the country can claim.
Pleasant wasn’t just a lockdown corner — he was a highlight reel waiting to happen every time he touched the football. His knack for slipping through coverage and flipping the field on returns was one of Tulane’s secret weapons in their impressive defensive campaign.
A Perfect Fit for Auburn’s Rebuild
Auburn, under Coach Hugh Freeze, has made it clear this offseason: speed and playmaking are non-negotiables. With Pleasant’s commitment, the Tigers are filling a key need in their secondary while also supercharging a special teams unit that has lacked consistent explosiveness in recent seasons.
“Rayshawn’s versatility is huge for us,” said an Auburn insider. “He’s the kind of player who changes momentum in a single snap — whether it’s locking up a top receiver or taking a kick to the house. That kind of impact is rare.”
Pleasant is expected to immediately compete for a starting cornerback spot and take over kick return duties. His presence could also free up other defensive backs to move into more specialized roles, giving Auburn new depth and flexibility.
War Eagle Hype Builds
News of Pleasant’s commitment has sent waves across #WarEagle Nation, with fans and analysts alike praising the move as a savvy pickup from the transfer portal. Auburn’s defense has steadily improved under Freeze, and adding a proven performer like Pleasant brings even more credibility to that progress.
Social media exploded following the announcement, with fans flooding comment sections and hashtags like #RayshawnToAuburn trending among Tiger faithful.
More Than Just a Player
Off the field, Pleasant is known for his leadership and relentless work ethic. Former teammates describe him as a “culture guy” — the kind who sets the tone in the locker room and raises the bar for everyone around him.
His addition speaks to a broader trend under Coach Freeze: building not just a team, but a culture of winning, accountability, and electric playmaking.
The Road Ahead
As spring workouts heat up and summer camp approaches, all eyes will be on Pleasant as he adjusts to life in the SEC. But if his track record is any indication, Auburn fans can expect immediate returns — both literally and figuratively.
With the secondary solidifying and special teams gaining a true weapon, the Tigers just took another step closer to becoming one of the most
exciting teams in the country.
