This offseason, Auburn football added a number of players to their defense through the transfer portal. James Ash, the defensive tackle, was one of the more unexpected signings.
Ash really began his college career at Wake Forest before moving on to Florida A&M, a Historically Black College and University in the FCS.
For me, camp has been a worthwhile educational experience. According to Ash, I’ve experienced the football scene at a variety of levels. It’s undoubtedly a shift from working at the ACC, SWAC, and now the SEC, but it’s nothing I can’t adjust to.
Ash recorded 86 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, two and a half sacks, three pass deflections, and one interception during his three seasons at Florida A&M.
During his three seasons with the Rattlers, Gerald Thomas III, a Democrat beat reporter from Tallahassee, covered Florida A&M and saw Ash.
Thomas gave AL.com his thoughts on how Ash established himself at the HBCU level.
Thomas told AL.com that James Ash was a vital member of a strong FAMU defense that placed second in the country in total defense, helping the Rattlers win the Celebration Bowl and the 2023 Black College Football National Championship.
The Rattlers did not have as much success the next season. But according to Pro Football Focus, Ash had the third-highest defensive grade among SWAC defensive linemen the previous season and was selected to the second team All-SWAC.
Ash was a bright spot for the Rattlers following a head coaching change (Willie Simmons) that also saw the departure of FAMU’s defensive coordinator (Ryan Smith). He was named to the All-SWAC team and solidified his position as one of FCS’ best interior defensive linemen, Thomas continued.
After Auburn’s practice on Tuesday, Ash gave reporters an overview of his skill set. He attributes the majority of his prior achievements to his adaptability both on the line and in his off-field training.
I am erratic. I might be strong. When necessary, I can be delicate, Ash remarked. You simply need to conduct a thorough film analysis on it.
Hugh Freeze, the coach of Auburn, has acknowledged Ash’s intangible qualities and believes that if he works everything out, he will play a significant role on the Tigers defense.
Freeze claimed that James Ash is heavy-handed after he learns his duties. The depth there appeals to me. Simply commit to putting your all into the plays you are assigned.
All of the players are vying for positions on the field, so Freeze stressed the value of defensive depth chart rotations.
As he approaches his last year of eligibility, Ash views that opportunity as a blessing.
I came from the SWAC, where we didn’t have a lot of rotation. I felt awful after playing 60 snaps a game, but I still had to return the following weekend and give it my all again, Ash remarked. being able to get 30 to 20 significant photos that will be captured on video and elevate the experience. That’s a blessing, I promise. No more is possible.
For AL.com, Jerry Humphrey III reports on Auburn athletics. You can email him at [email protected] or follow him on X at @Jerryhump3.
