Auburn Football: Top 3 way-too-early 2022 breakout candidates

3. John Samuel Shenker, TE

Auburn has long been known for its ability to produce elite running backs and quarterbacks. But with the quarterback position now in question following the departure of Bo Nix, and considering the lack of experience at wide receiver, there are concerns heading into 2022.

There feels like no position more poised for a breakout in 2022 than tight end, and the player who easily presents the most value to do so is John Samuel Shenker.

Even though Auburn had a mostly disappointing season in 2021, they still managed to break a few major records for the historic program. Including most receptions by a tight end (33) and most passing yards by a tight end (413). Both of which were broken by Shenker.

Furthermore, Auburn is also losing its top receiver from a year ago in Kobe Hudson, as well as sophomore, Ja’Varrius Johnson, who is coming off a solid season. So, there are some obvious gaps that need to be filled, specifically through the air.

While Tyler Fromm and Luke Deal are more than likely to see their standard blocking roles expand on offense, Landen King feels like a potential star in the making. Shenker is, without question, the most established player on offense and the one who will probably lead the way in receptions for the Tigers in 2022.

Not only will the team need to lean more on their tight ends given the sheer amount of turnover in the receiver room. Especially if they hope to make up for the 1,420 yards and 10 touchdowns their five departing receivers combined for in 2021.

But Shenker is also the most reliable (and proven) pass-catcher left on the roster, and Bryan Harsin has already shown his commitment to putting more of an emphasis on the tight end position.

So, when you combine the lack of depth at receiver with the amount of production and experience Shenker already has, we could be in for one heck of a year for the sixth-year senior.