Hugh Freeze was asked more than once on the status of star running back Jarquez Hunter, but the Auburn coach declined to reveal his status.

“I understand your question but matters related to team rules and procedures, they’re handled internally and will not be discussed publicly,” Freeze said.

That was a similar response to what Freeze told reporters last month at SEC Media Days.

Auburn earlier this summer announced player suspensions and that it’s conducting an investigation, but did not specify the players after a purported sex tape circulated on social media.

Hunter last season rushed for 675 yards and 7 touchdowns, and for his career, he has 1,269 rushing yards, 10 career rush TD, and that ranks 41st among Auburn career rushers. Some of his memorable plays included an 8-yard TD run at Mississippi State to give Tigers a 33-30 lead with 1:05 in regulation, and he also had a 62-yard touchdown reception at Georgia.