On Friday night, Gus Malzahn addressed the absence of two star players, saying they were “running late” to join Auburn in Tampa, Fla. for the Outback Bowl.

Wide receiver D’haquille Williams and linebacker Cassanova McKinzy were both absent when the team reported to its hotel and team banquet in Tampa on Friday as they get ready to face Wisconsin on January 1. Malzahn met with the media following the dinner and said Williams is “on his way.”

Malzahn would not confirm that Williams, who is reportedly considering leaving for the NFL after his first season with the Tigers, would be ready for the game. Williams missed all of practice last week while dealing with injuries and illness.

McKinzy is interested in the NFL as well, having filed the paperwork to get a draft grade from the NFL Draft Advisory Board. Williams reportedly did not file such paperwork, but the junior college transfer has long been rumored to be heading to the NFL after one season at Auburn.