Braden Smith thinks Auburn will have a big year in 2017, and he wants to be a part of it. The All-SEC offensive lineman has decided to come back for his senior season.

“I feel like we have a chance to do something special next year. It’s exciting,” Smith told the team’s official website. “We have a bunch of people coming back. I feel like it’s going to be a really strong line next year.”

Auburn had the SEC’s No. 1 rushing offense in 2016 (271.3 rushing yards per game) and Smith’s blocking up played a big part. He credits position coach Herb Hand with his junior year improvement.

“Playing under Coach Hand definitely made me a better player,” Smith said. “He’s definitely a great coach. I’ve come miles under him. He took me to a different level and helped me develop as a player.”

Smith’s return is important as Auburn is losing starting linemen Alex Kozan and Robert Leff.