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Keionte Scott among 15 defensive spring practice standouts around college football

Justin Hokansonby:Justin Hokanson04/25/23

_JHokanson

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Keionte Scott works through drills during spring practice in March of 2023. (Photo by Auburn Athletics)

AUBURN — Keionte Scott continues to earn rave reviews from observers around Auburn football regarding his potential this fall.

With nearly all spring camps finished across the country, On3’s Matt Zenitz included Scott among 15 defensive spring standouts.

Here’s what Zenitz said of Scott:

Scott is on track to build on a 2022 season during which he posted 54 tackles and an interception as Auburn’s nickel back. The Tigers’ staff views him as a future NFL nickel back. “He may be the best player on the defense,” a source said.

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Zac Etheridge and Wesley McGriff, both of which coach Auburn’s defensive backs, praised Scott this spring. Etheridge called Scott a “1A” starter, while McGriff said Scott has “dynamic” abilities.

“I see a dynamic player. I see a guy that can impact the game, a guy who can play at a high level, who loves football,” McGriff said. “When he comes to work every day, he’s prepared. He’s got his notebook, he’s a serious-minded individual. When he gets on the grass, you can see his performance.”

McGriff remembered one of Scott’s best days of spring practice, saying, “Coach (Zac) Etheridge looked at me one time and said, ‘cool him off.’ I said, ‘I don’t have water to cool this dude off.’ He was locking them up. That guy can really impact the game.”

Scott finished last season with 42 tackles, three pass break-ups and one interception, ranking as the third-best returning defender for Auburn according to Pro Football Focus. Scott is also very well respected within the football program.

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Auburn Live recently had the chance to guest co-host the On To Victory collective podcast and who was the football player chosen to participate in the show? Scott. Auburn Live also caught up with Scott during winter workouts for a one-one-one interview, where Scott was transparent and thoughtful talking about last season and his experience at Auburn so far.

Scott is competing with Donovan Kaufman at the nickel position, with the ability to play corner, if necessary. The corner positions are currently being manned by Nehemiah Pritchett and DJ James.

McGriff loved the leadership he’s seen from the group during the spring.

“Keionte Scott, you can see him coaching those guys up. Nehemiah Pritchett, he’s putting his arm around Kayin Lee and coaching him up. That speaks to the leadership and the bonding. That’s good to see.”

Scott was the No. 1 junior college cornerback in the nation according to On3 Sports Consensus player rankings, ultimately choosing Auburn over Tennessee, Oregon and others.

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