Tanner Bailey rejoins Auburn football after coming out of retirement.
In January 2024, Bailey announced his retirement from football. He has since returned to the field to play with the Auburn Tigers.
From Gordo, Alabama, Bailey was a four-star quarterback recruit in the class of 2022 who first committed to Oregon before switching to South Carolina. During his two years at USC, he participated in just one game while at South Carolina. Following his retirement from football, he made the decision to return home to Gordo and enrolled at Auburn. After graduating with an undergraduate degree in December, he will now return to Auburn to complete his second degree and join the Tigers. During the Tigers’ spring off-season, Bailey will be practicing off the field.
Bailey passed for 6,200 yards and 71 touchdowns while attending Gordo High School. During his junior year, Bailey led the Greenwave to the Class 4A State Championship and helped them win two regional titles. He was ranked as the No. 16 quarterback in the class of 2022 and the No. 12 recruit in the state of Alabama.
Bailey, Jackson Arnold, a transfer from Oklahoma, Deuce Knight, a 2025 recruit, and Ashton Daniels, a transfer from Stanford, will all be joining Auburn’s 2025 squad after the school lost four quarterbacks to the transfer portal this offseason.
Tanner Bailey, a talented quarterback from Gordo, Alabama, has had a dynamic journey in collegiate football, marked by early promise, unexpected turns, and a recent return to the sport with Auburn University.
High School Stardom and Recruitment
Bailey’s football prowess was evident during his tenure at Gordo High School. As a senior, he completed 131 of 217 passes, amassing 2,401 yards and 33 touchdowns, leading the Green Wave to a commendable 9-3 record. Over his high school career, he accumulated over 8,600 passing yards and 104 touchdowns, showcasing his exceptional talent and earning him a four-star recruit status. His impressive performance attracted offers from prestigious programs, including Alabama, Oregon, Michigan, and Florida State. Initially, Bailey committed to Oregon in March 2021, expressing enthusiasm about the program and its coaching staff. citeturn0search3
Collegiate Career at South Carolina
Despite his initial commitment to Oregon, Bailey eventually chose to join the University of South Carolina as part of their 2022 signing class. During his freshman year, he did not make any game appearances but was a regular on the travel squad as a reserve quarterback. In his redshirt freshman season in 2023, Bailey saw limited action, appearing briefly in the fourth quarter against Furman. Seeking more opportunities, he entered the transfer portal in December 2023. citeturn0search0
Retirement and Return to Football
In January 2024, Bailey made the unexpected decision to retire from football, citing personal reasons and a desire to focus on his mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. He expressed gratitude for his football journey and the opportunities it provided, including his time at Gordo High School, the University of South Carolina, and the chance to play at his dream school, Auburn University. After a year away from the sport, Bailey felt rejuvenated and ready to return. In January 2025, he announced his decision to come out of retirement and join the Auburn Tigers as a walk-on quarterback. citeturn0search1
Joining Auburn University
Bailey’s connection to Auburn runs deep; his father, Lance Bailey, played for the Tigers in the mid-1980s, and Tanner grew up an avid Auburn fan. His return to football with Auburn fulfills a lifelong dream. He joins a quarterback room that includes transfers Jackson Arnold from Oklahoma and Ashton Daniels from Stanford, as well as incoming freshman Deuce Knight. Bailey brings experience and a competitive spirit to the team, aiming to contribute to Auburn’s success in any capacity. He emphasized his commitment to making the team better and his eagerness to see Auburn win. citeturn0search1
Outlook and Expectations
With two years of eligibility remaining, Bailey’s addition provides depth and experience to Auburn’s quarterback roster. His journey reflects resilience and a deep passion for the game. As he integrates into the team, Bailey’s leadership and determination are expected to positively influence Auburn’s offensive dynamics. His return is not just a personal milestone but also a potential asset for the Tigers as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Tanner Bailey’s story is a testament to perseverance and the enduring allure of fulfilling one’s dreams. His return to football with Auburn University marks a new chapter in his athletic career, one that holds promise for both him and the Tigers.
