Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze sees immense promise in quarterback Jackson Arnold and believes the key to unlocking his 5-star potential lies in rebuilding his confidence. Once considered a can’t-miss prospect, Arnold was highly regarded for his arm strength, mobility, football IQ, and leadership—attributes Freeze says made him “as good a quarterback as I’ve seen in high school.”
However, Arnold’s early college career at Oklahoma didn’t go as planned. He faced instability, including coaching changes and a lack of consistent support, which led to shaky performances and confidence issues. Freeze has zeroed in on that mental hurdle as the most important thing Arnold must overcome to thrive at Auburn.
“He’s got everything physically. He just needs confidence,” Freeze said. “Our receiver room, I think, will help with that. They can go get it. He needs to believe in himself again.”
Freeze has named Arnold as Auburn’s starting quarterback but is encouraging competition within the QB room to keep Arnold sharp and motivated. Freeze is not handing Arnold the role by default—he wants Arnold to earn it through performance, not pedigree.
The head coach is optimistic that Auburn’s improved supporting cast, particularly at wide receiver, will help restore Arnold’s rhythm and decision-making. Freeze is also confident that Auburn’s offensive scheme—tailored to Arnold’s strengths—will allow the quarterback to play fast, free, and instinctively.
For Arnold, the move to Auburn is more than a transfer; it’s a reset. With the support of Freeze and a new environment built to empower him, the young quarterback has a real chance to fulfill the potential that once made him one of the top prospects in the nation.