When Donovan Starr arrived at Auburn in January, the freshman cornerback had a clear objective earning playing time in his first year. That goal is no small feat, given the depth and talent already in place ahead of him.
Beyond that, Starr must also impress defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin, who faces mounting pressure due to his contract situation. To do so, Starr will need to showcase consistent playmaking ability. But can he rise to the challenge and surpass a more experienced player in the lineup?
More Than Just Speed
At 5-foot-11 and 172 pounds, Starr may not be the most physically imposing cornerback, but he makes up for it with his ability to stay stride-for-stride with any receiver. His elite speed is unquestionable, he won the Tennessee State 3A title in the 100-meter dash, eliminating any concerns about his quickness. Rated a four-star recruit and the No. 18 cornerback in the nation by 247Sports, he chose Auburn over powerhouse programs like Alabama, Clemson, Georgia, and Tennessee. However, raw speed alone won’t secure him playing time. How he applies that speed in coverage and game situations will ultimately determine his role on the field.
Seizing His Opportunities
Spring practice and the annual A-Day game present Starr with his first real chance to make an impression. These moments could prove both beneficial and challenging. He will have the chance to go against one of the nation’s top receiving corps, which will test his ability to cover elite talent. Cam Coleman, a physically dominant X-receiver, will push him to adjust to stronger competition, while quick, shifty wideouts like Malcolm Simmons and Eric Singleton will challenge his reaction time and coverage instincts.
Meanwhile, veteran defensive backs Kayin Lee and Jay Crawford bring a different style of play. Though they lack Starr’s top-end speed, they thrive on physicality, a trait that Auburn’s coaching staff values highly. Starr must prove he can hold his own in that aspect of the game to earn the trust of the defensive staff.
The Path to Playing Time
Starr’s quickest route to seeing the field may be in subpackages, where his speed can be a valuable asset. Over the summer, he’ll focus on adding strength to complement his agility, ensuring his speed is a tool rather than his sole defining trait. Auburn has developed a reputation for grooming top-tier defensive backs, and Donovan Starr has the potential to be the next standout in that lineage.
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