Auburn Tigers Welcome New Wide Receiver Tray Taylor

The Auburn Tigers have introduced a new wide receiver, Tray Taylor, whose arrival is sparking conversations due to his size. Taylor previously played for the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers and Troy Trojans. He is now part of the Tigers’ lineup, confirmed by a video shared by AuburnTigers.com senior writer Jeff Shearer.

Sports Reference lists Taylor at 5-foot-8 and 160 pounds. However, Auburn’s roster adjusts those numbers to 5-foot-6 and 150 pounds, which seems more accurate based on fall camp footage.

Fans have shared their opinions on social media, with some humorous takes on Taylor’s stature. Comments ranged from @WilliiamHBonney’s quip, ‘Thought this was a coach’s son practicing for fun,’ to @tracey_lynnee’s ‘Mighty mouse!’ remark.

Despite Taylor’s size, he has potential to significantly contribute to the Tigers. In his previous season at Troy, Taylor made 30 receptions, accumulating nearly 500 yards and three touchdowns. He also carried the ball 10 times for 52 yards and scored once more, while gaining experience in kick and punt returns, primarily with Coastal Carolina.

Taylor’s opportunity at Auburn follows a strong showing at Tyler Junior College, where he earned second-team JUCO All-American honors in 2023 by achieving 39 receptions for 850 yards and nine touchdowns, according to Peter Rauterkus of AL.com. Auburn is down a wide receiver following Duke Smith’s dismissal from the program in June over a violation of team rules. Taylor’s role will be vital as the team seeks to redefine its identity under new coach Alex Golesh.

Peter Rauterkus noted that, ‘If nothing else, Taylor gives the Tigers better numbers in practice, but was a contributor for Troy last year.’ Auburn will need players to emerge this season since the highly valued Cam Coleman transferred to the Texas Longhorns during the offseason.

Competing at Auburn means facing strong competition among receivers for playtime. However, Taylor has consistently produced results throughout his career. With a journey that began at junior college, Taylor now has the opportunity to make an impact in top-tier college football and perhaps complete an impressive chapter of his college career.