A Rising Star in the Backfield
Omar Mabson, a hometown favorite of the Auburn faithful, has cemented his place as a pivotal piece of the Tigers’ 2026 backfield. Head coach Alex Golesh has repeatedly highlighted the running back’s work ethic and his knack for lifting teammates in the locker room.
The competition for the No. 2 spot pits Mabson against Bryson Washington, a clash that adds depth and intensity to the position group. In his limited 2025 action, Mabson logged 16 carries for 71 yards, averaging 4.4 yards per carry, and caught four of five passes thrown his way, underscoring his versatility as a receiver.
From Three‑Star Recruit to Award‑Winning Playmaker
Mabson arrived on campus as a three‑star prospect out of Auburn High School, where he earned the Opelika‑Auburn News Offensive Player of the Year honor as a junior. That accolade marked the beginning of a trajectory that has seen him evolve from a modest freshman contribution to a player now viewed as a cornerstone of the offense.
The coaching staff’s ambition to fully exploit the talent in the running back room reflects a broader strategy to diversify the attack and keep defenses guessing. With Mabson’s blend of grit, receiving skill and relentless drive, Auburn looks poised to capitalize on his upward momentum as the 2026 season approaches.