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Position check: TE/H-back

AUBURN | Auburn returns one starter and a bevy of talented players. A look at the cornerback position before the start of spring practice on Feb. 28.

WHO’S GONE: Auburn doesn’t lose any scholarship tight ends, H-backs or fullbacks from last year’s team.

WHO’S BACK: Junior Chandler Cox returns with 19 career starts at H-back and fullback. Junior Jalen Harris has played in 25 games including five starts at tight end.

Cox scored a touchdown in the Sugar Bowl.
Cox scored a touchdown in the Sugar Bowl. (Robin Conn/AuburnSports.com)

WHO’S NEW: Junior college transfer Sal Cannella enrolled in January and will go through spring practice.

WHO’S COMING: John Samuel Shenker signed in February and is scheduled to report May 28.

OUTLOOK: Cox is the difference-maker of the bunch and should see his role increase in 2017 with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. He’s always been a versatile running back and has taking big steps forward as a lead blocker the past two years.

Harris has two career receptions and they both went for touchdowns last fall. He should have more opportunities with offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey emphasizing tight ends and running backs in his passing attack. Cannella will have an opportunity to earn a lot of playing time with his pass-catching ability. Whether he’s used mainly in passing situations or can become a three-down tight end depends on how well his blocking develops over the next six months.

Shenker will probably play as a true freshman this fall to give Auburn more depth at the position. Redshirt freshman wide receiver Marquis McClain could get a look as a stretch tight end this spring and Auburn returns several key walk-ons at fullback/H-back in Keenan Sweeney, Robert Muschamp and Spencer Nigh.

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