Swiss Army knife? Bryan Harsin says J.J. Pegues offers Auburn something ‘to use in any phase’

Auburn TE J.J. Pegues was a mismatch waiting to happen last season as the Tigers used the agile, yet big-bodied athlete around the field.

Now that he’s got a glimpse of Pegues capability, coach Bryan Harsin gave an early review of Pegues to reporters on Thursday.

“He’s a physical player. He’s a physical presence. I think that’s what we’ll be able to use in any phase,” Harsin said, per Josh Vitale, and added that Pegues could play on offense, special teams or defense.

Harsin shared these comments following a scrimmage where he said the focus was on operation and execution.

“It is simply about who can operate and execute,” he said. “We saw guys who could do that today, and we saw guys who need work.”

Pegues in a game at Georgia last season showed off some of that versatility when he gained 2 first downs rushing and had a 4-yard reception. He also showed off the athleticism with a spin move and then hurdle all in one play against Arkansas.

Last season, the 6-foot-2, 300-pound native of Oxford, Miss., was one of the most unique players across the SEC, especially for a freshman.

J.J. Pegues is 6-2, 300 pounds.

AND HERE HE IS WITH A SPIN MOVE AND A HURDLE. pic.twitter.com/TyV4cFVhbf

— Cover 3 Podcast (@Cover3Podcast) October 10, 2020

Keith Farner

A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.