Damari Alston Emerging as Leader of Auburn RB Room
Damari Alston, a 5-foot-9, 209-pound running back from Atlanta, Georgia, has emerged as a key leader in Auburn University’s running back room. As of April 2025, Alston is preparing for his junior season with the Tigers, bringing a blend of athletic prowess, leadership, and a commitment to excellence that positions him as a cornerstone of Auburn’s offensive strategy.
Early Career and Development
Alston’s journey to Auburn began at Woodward Academy, where he set school records with 4,195 rushing yards and 62 touchdowns. Ranked as a top 50 recruit in Georgia by 247Sports and ESPN, he was a four-star prospect and PrepStar All-American. Despite these accolades, Alston’s freshman season in 2022 was limited, featuring a few carries and a long gain of 35 yards against San Jose State. His breakout came in 2023, where he played in 10 games, rushing for 320 yards and a touchdown. Notably, he gained 85 yards against Alabama, showcasing his potential on a national stage.
Leadership Emergence
In the absence of standout players like Tank Bigsby, Alston has stepped up as a vocal leader within the running back group. Position coach Carnell “Cadillac” Williams has praised Alston’s ability to lead both by example and through direct communication. Williams noted, “Damari is the guy that leads by example but can capture guys — the way he talks to them, the way he brings in guys.”
Alston’s leadership extends beyond the field. He has taken on mentoring roles, guiding younger teammates and fostering a culture of accountability and work ethic. His commitment to the team’s success is evident in his actions, whether it’s staying late after practice or offering support to teammates during challenging times.
2024 Season Performance
The 2024 season marked a significant step forward for Alston. In a game against New Mexico State, the running back trio of Jarquez Hunter, Alston, and Jeremiah Cobb combined for 266 rushing yards, with Alston averaging an impressive 8 yards per carry. This performance highlighted the depth and talent of Auburn’s running back corps, with Alston playing a pivotal role in the team’s offensive success.
Offseason Commitment and Goals
Heading into the 2025 season, Alston has intensified his focus on personal and team goals. He aims to rush for 1,000 yards and become a more integral part of the passing game, building on his single reception from the previous season. Alston attributes his growth to the guidance of Coach Williams, emphasizing the importance of effort and attitude. He reflects, “There’s only two things we can control, and that’s our effort and our attitude.”
NFL Aspirations
Looking ahead, Alston has expressed a strong desire to play at the professional level. He understands the dedication required to reach the NFL and is committed to doing what it takes to achieve that goal. His work ethic, combined with his leadership and on-field performance, positions him as a promising prospect for the next level.
Damari Alston’s evolution from a promising recruit to a team leader exemplifies the qualities Auburn values in its student-athletes. His blend of talent, leadership, and dedication makes him a player to watch in the upcoming season. As Alston continues to develop, both on and off the field, he remains a central figure in Auburn’s pursuit of success in the Southeastern Conference and beyond.
