Sophomore defensive lineman Malik Autry says he has shifted his focus this year. Last year, he told Auburn Undercover that he was just looking for snaps. Now, Autry says he is focused on making plays and being a big time player. Fellow defensive lineman Cody Sigler says Autry practices beyond his years.
“He comes in everyday He gets here before me almost every day. He’s in the training room all day like a vet. He has a vet mindset,” Sigler said to reporters after today’s practice.
Autry has been getting reps at both nose and tackle. His position coach, Vontrell King-Williams, was one of two holdovers from the previous coaching staff, the other being third year defensive coordinator DJ Durkin. Autry told Auburn Undercover how important that was for him going into this year.
“He (King-Williams) continued to support me every single day. Somebody I've been committed to since my 10th grade year, so we have a great relationship. And he knows what I can be, and he pushes to get the best out of me every single day.”
Autry says his coach preaches intensity every practice. He says this has made every practice feel like a regular season game. Autry also told Auburn Undercover things about his game that have changed from year one to year two.
“I'd say my strength, first of all, and then just mentally, honestly, my confidence, just knowing I belong in this league. I'm gonna go against some great o-linemen that gives me confidence going to the game.”
Sigler added to that saying, “Malik’s body has changed so much ever since I got here since the beginning. He looks like a different person.” He believes it won’t take too many games this year before the whole country is talking about Autry.
“I bet in a couple years people, or even this year, everybody’s gonna know who he is.”
Autry will have his first opportunity one week from Saturday on a national stage to show his growth from his freshman year.
Auburn Undercover is an independent Auburn sports media company covering Auburn athletics, recruiting and insider news.
