re: Interesting takes on Auburn players at NFL.com

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Others to watch
Jeremy Johnson, Auburn: The former backup to Nick Marshall, Johnson looked good in his season-opening start against Arkansas and showed off an arm to challenge defenses with throws that Marshall couldn't make. Gus Malzahn's offense might be more pass-heavy than we've seen it with Johnson taking snaps.

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2. D'haquille "Duke" Williams, Auburn

It's hard to find a tougher, more physical receiver in college football than Williams. Williams is a big, thick target who plays with elite focus and determination when working the middle of the field and he maxes out his catch radius with well-timed ball-plucking skills. He should see even more work this season with pocket-passing specialist Jeremy Johnson taking over as the starter. Williams shows some hip tightness and stiffness into his breaks, which are areas he needs to improve upon. It's worth noting that Williams was suspended for his bowl game last season.

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10. Avery Young, Auburn

Young comes from NFL bloodlines. His older brother, Willie Young, is a starting defensive end with the Bears, and Panthers long-time stalwart, Thomas Davis, is his cousin. Young did an admirable job at right tackle last season, but he is best-suited inside at guard, which is where he is expected to start this season. Young has a big bubble and is a decent heads-up blocker with the ability to be effective as a short-puller. Young's biggest issues are his lack of bend and his limited change-of-direction ability. His background at tackle should help strengthen his interior pass protection.

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5. Jonathan Jones, Auburn

Jones has all the talent and athleticism you would want from a cornerback, but his ability to stay healthy is a big concern for NFL evaluators. Jones' body type looks more like a slot receiver's than a cornerback's, but he makes up for that with smoothness in his transitions and an uncanny ability to make plays on the ball at the catch point. Jones was targeted 50 times last season and ended up breaking up 10 passes while intercepting six. Jones shadowed Chris Conley throughout Auburn's matchup with Georgia and showed he could run stride for stride with the speedster. Auburn has a dangerous defensive front, which will make Jones that much more dominant in 2015 -- if he's healthy.

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