Rayshawn Pleasant leads Auburn’s secondary

Fifth-year cornerback Rayshawn Pleasant has taken on a central leadership role as the most experienced player in Auburn’s secondary. Head coach Alex Golseh praised Pleasant’s intelligence and toughness and called him one of the Tigers’ best players.

Pleasant said he returned knowing he had more experience than the other members of the secondary. His approach has been to set the example through his preparation and daily work, giving younger teammates a model to follow before game day arrives.

That leadership role comes alongside Pleasant’s work on special teams. In his Auburn debut against Baylor in the 2025 season opener, he returned a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown in the Tigers’ 38-24 victory.

Pleasant ranked second in the SEC last season with 412 kickoff return yards and a 24-yard average. This season, opponents have limited his chances through touchbacks and kicks directed away from him, leaving him with four returns and a 21.8-yard average.

His response has been straightforward: keep preparing and make each available return count. The reduced volume has not changed his focus on the areas he can control, including his daily work and readiness when another return opportunity arrives.

Why it matters

Pleasant gives Auburn an experienced leader in the secondary and a proven threat on kickoff returns. Opponents’ decision to use touchbacks or kick away from him reflects the pressure his return ability can create.