AUBURN AUTHORITY

Source: Jermaine Whitehead to return to starting lineup

James Crepea

Montgomery Advertiser

Auburn defensive back Jermaine Whitehead (35) attempts to tackle Texas A&M wide receiver Malcome Kennedy (84) during the NCAA football game between Auburn and Texas A&M on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, in Auburn, Ala. Texas A&M defeated Auburn 41-28 after Auburn fumbled twice on there last two drives.

AUBURN -- Safety Jermaine Whitehead is returning to the starting lineup, a source confirmed.

The Auburn senior has not started since the second week of the season. After a four-game suspension for a reported verbal altercation with an assistant coach, Whitehead appeared in two games only on special teams before returning to defense against Texas A&M last week.

Auburn coach Gus Malzahn and defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson each said Whitehead did "everything" that was asked of him in order to return to the field.

Whitehead has 14 tackles and three interceptions, including his two tackles and interception against the Aggies. He has not been available for interviews since the reported incident before the Sept. 18 game at Kansas State.

Josh Holsey started six games and Derrick Moncrief started one during Whitehead's absence. They'll move to backup roles with Whitehead's return, which was first reported by AuburnUndercover.com.