“I Should Be Traded”: Auburn Tigers QB Payton Thorne’s Alleged Message to Head Coach
In a shocking turn of events at Auburn University, reports have surfaced that starting quarterback Payton Thorne allegedly told head coach Hugh Freeze that he “should be traded.” While the concept of “trading” players is foreign to college football, this statement has raised eyebrows and sparked debate among fans, analysts, and college football enthusiasts alike.
So, what exactly is going on with Payton Thorne, and what does this mean for Auburn’s football program moving forward?
The Background: Payton Thorne at Auburn
Payton Thorne, a transfer from Michigan State, was expected to be one of the key players for the Auburn Tigers in 2023. After a solid career with the Spartans, Thorne brought a wealth of experience and maturity to Auburn’s quarterback room, where he was expected to help revitalize an offense that struggled the previous season.
However, Thorne’s tenure at Auburn has been far from smooth. While his talent is undeniable, he has faced criticism for his performance on the field, especially in high-pressure SEC matchups. His inconsistencies at the quarterback position have led to questions about his fit within head coach Hugh Freeze’s offensive system. Auburn fans, long starved for a consistent and high-level quarterback play, have voiced frustration over Thorne’s lack of progress, especially given the program’s lofty expectations.
The Alleged “Trade” Statement
The most recent bombshell involving Thorne is his reported remark to Auburn’s head coach, Hugh Freeze. According to sources close to the program, Thorne told Freeze that he “should be traded.” This statement has raised eyebrows, as “trading” players is a term associated with professional sports, not college football.
In reality, college players do not get “traded” in the traditional sense. Instead, the NCAA’s transfer portal allows athletes to leave one school and join another at their discretion. If Thorne is indeed feeling frustrated with his current situation, his words could be interpreted as a veiled request to leave Auburn and explore opportunities elsewhere through the transfer portal.
The statement, whether made in jest or out of genuine frustration, highlights the growing tensions between player expectations, team performance, and the dynamics of college football in the era of the transfer portal.
What Could This Mean for Auburn?
If Thorne is truly considering a departure, it could have significant implications for Auburn’s quarterback situation. With a starting quarterback potentially on his way out, the Tigers would be left scrambling for a replacement. Auburn has a solid recruiting pipeline, but losing a seasoned quarterback in the middle of the season could disrupt any momentum the program has built.
Furthermore, if Thorne’s frustrations are indicative of larger issues within the program—such as player dissatisfaction, coaching disagreements, or misalignment in system fit—it could lead to further unrest. This could trigger an even bigger exodus from Auburn’s locker room, especially in an era where players have more freedom to change teams with minimal consequences.
Could This Be a Wake-Up Call for Hugh Freeze?
Head coach Hugh Freeze, in his first few seasons at Auburn, has had his fair share of challenges. While Freeze has a proven track record of success at previous stops, the pressure is mounting for him to deliver results at Auburn. Thorne’s alleged comment might be more than just a player venting frustration—it could be a symptom of larger systemic issues within the program.
Auburn’s offensive struggles are well-documented, and if a veteran quarterback like Thorne is publicly expressing dissatisfaction, it suggests that Freeze’s system may not be meshing with the players he has. This could be a signal to Freeze and his coaching staff that adjustments are necessary in order to keep the team cohesive and productive.
The Future of Payton Thorne
If Thorne does decide to transfer, it wouldn’t be the first time an experienced quarterback has sought greener pastures after a rocky stint with a new program. With the transfer portal in place, the freedom to move is more accessible than ever for players who feel their needs aren’t being met. Thorne could find a new home at a program where his skill set aligns better with the team’s offensive philosophy.
Still, Thorne has the potential to salvage his Auburn career if he can reconcile his frustrations and rise to the occasion on the field. Auburn fans have seen flashes of brilliance from him, but consistency has been the missing ingredient. If he can turn things around, it could signal the start of a more productive relationship between him and Freeze, and help restore confidence in Auburn’s quarterback situation.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Auburn?
At the end of the day, Payton Thorne’s alleged comment about being “traded” is more than just a headline—it’s a reflection of the pressures athletes face in today’s world of college football. The transfer portal has altered the landscape of college athletics, providing players with more freedom but also creating a culture where dissatisfaction can lead to quick exits.
For Auburn, this situation is just one chapter in what has already been a tumultuous season. Whether Thorne stays or goes, the program needs to make serious adjustments both on the field and behind the scenes to ensure the future remains bright. For Thorne, he has some big decisions to make about his college football future. Whether those decisions lead him to stay at Auburn or to transfer elsewhere, the spotlight will be on him as he navigates the next steps of his career.
In the meantime, fans will be left wondering: Will Payton Thorne continue as Auburn’s quarterback, or will this “trade” request be the beginning of a new chapter in his college football journey? Only time will tell.