AUBURN AUTHORITY

Avery Young seeks NFL feedback, but staying at Auburn

James Crepea
Montgomery Advertiser

TAMPA -- Avery Young isn't going anywhere yet.

The third-year sophomore offensive lineman submitted paperwork for evaluation by the NFL Draft Advisory Board, a customary practice for eligible underclassmen, but he's not going to enter the 2015 NFL Draft.

"No, that's not even in my mindset right now," Young said. "I just wanted to know. I still got a lot of work to do. … Haven't even thought about that yet."

Young was one of four Auburn players, along with wide receiver Sammie Coates, who declared for the draft, and linebacker Cassanova McKinzy and Kris Frost, to submit their paperwork.

"They're exploring their options," Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said.

Young simply wanted feedback before a third season on the Plains. He comes from an NFL pedigree, with older brother Willie Young Jr., a defensive end for the Chicago Bears, and cousin Thomas Davis, a linebacker with the Carolina Panthers.

"Talking through it with my family just wanting to see where I was at; see what they think about my performance so far so I know what to work on and what I need to improve on," Young said. "I'm staying (at Auburn)."

The 6-foot-6 Young, who is up to 322 pounds, started all 12 games this season, seven at right tackle, three at right guard and two at left guard, where he'll play in the Outback Bowl.

"I'm at left guard (in practice). Probably be at left guard for the rest of my life," Young said.

Young has practiced at center as well, and could be an option to replace Reese Dismukes next season, though Austin Golson and Xavier Dampeer are also in the competition.

"We'll cross that bridge if and when that gets here," offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee said of Young potentially leaving.

Young won't come to the bridge for at least another season.