Auburn star tight end announces plans for 2022

Auburn didn’t end their season the way they wanted, but the Tigers believe their future is bright. In his first season, coach Bryan Harsin believes his program planted the seeds for success. On Saturday, Auburn got some news that’ll help those seeds grow — tight end John Samuel Shenker will return.

In 2021, Shenker set the Auburn single-season records for receptions and yards from a tight end. Even with uneven quarterback play, the star tight end found a way to make his impact.

To celebrate New Year’s Day, John Samuel Shenker released a statement on his return on social media.

“Dear Auburn Family, the past five years of my life have been the best years of my life,” started Shenker. “I will forever cherish the memories that I have made with my family and friends. To all of the coaches and support staff that have been a part of my football journey here at Auburn, I want to thank y’all from the bottom of my heart for developing me into the man I am today. You have all impacted my life over the past five years in more ways that you could imagine.

“But my job at Auburn University is not complete! I love this place with all my heart and I want to give it everything I have. With that being said, Year 6 here we go!!”

John Samuel Shenker wants to see things through with Auburn. The NFL will still be there next season — the opportunity to lead the Tigers into a new era won’t be.

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Last season, John Samuel Shenker evolved into one of Auburn’s most reliable players. Whether it was Bo Nix or T.J. Finley passing him the football, he was there for his quarterback.

On the season, Samuel Shenker caught 33 passes for 413 yards. While he didn’t score a touchdown, he helped move the ball up and down the field when the Tigers offense was humming. Additionally, he helped move defenders so the Auburn running game could find lanes.

As Bryan Harsin continues to get his feet wet in the SEC, players like John Samuel Shenker go a long way to developing the team’s culture. Next season, Auburn will look to improve upon a season that didn’t end the way the Tigers wanted it to.