The countdown to the 2025 college football season is officially underway, and fans are already feeling the anticipation. The Auburn Tigers are set to begin their campaign on Friday, August 29, when they face off against the Baylor Bears in Waco, Texas. With just 92 days remaining until that opening kickoff, the energy is beginning to build. As summer temperatures rise and the evenings stretch longer, AuburnOnSI is helping fans pass the time by honoring former Auburn players through a countdown based on jersey numbers. The spotlight now turns to No. 92, once worn by a dominant force on the defensive line—DeMarco McNeil.
DeMarco McNeil made his way to the Auburn football program from Blount High School in Prichard, Alabama, and brought with him a reputation for greatness. In 1998, he was named Alabama’s Mr. Football, an award typically dominated by offensive stars like quarterbacks and running backs. What made McNeil’s achievement even more notable was that he earned the prestigious honor as a defensive player only, a distinction that remains rare in the award’s history. His recruitment marked a time when Joe Whitt, Auburn’s linebackers coach, had a stronghold on the talent-rich southern region of Alabama.
McNeil was known for his immense size and strength, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing in at 300 pounds. These physical traits, combined with his football instincts and motor, made him a standout early in his college career. As a redshirt freshman in 2000, McNeil quickly proved he was more than just a highly-touted recruit. He became a cornerstone of Auburn’s defensive front, racking up an impressive 72 tackles from his position on the interior of the defensive line. His efforts earned him recognition as a Freshman All-American, showcasing his dominance on the national stage and setting the tone for what many expected to be a stellar college career.
However, McNeil’s journey was not without its challenges. The following two seasons saw him struggle with injuries, which impacted his playing time and productivity. Despite these setbacks, McNeil remained a committed and influential member of the team. His perseverance and dedication paid off in 2003, when he delivered his best season yet. That year, he was honored as a First-Team All-SEC selection, a testament to his grit and talent.
In 2003, McNeil was the leader and enforcer on a defensive line filled with other talented players, including Reggie Torbor, Jay Ratliff, and Bret Eddins. Despite the strong company, McNeil stood out. He finished the season with 55 total tackles, including 13 tackles for loss, seven sacks, and even recorded an interception—a rare feat for a nose tackle. His impact was felt in every game, as the Auburn defense held opposing offenses to an average of just 2.7 yards per rushing attempt, underscoring how effective and physical their line play was. McNeil’s presence in the middle of the defense made running between the tackles a daunting challenge for opponents.
Following his college career, McNeil entered the 2004 NFL Draft. Though he wasn’t selected, the Philadelphia Eagles signed him as an undrafted free agent, recognizing the talent and potential he had shown throughout his collegiate career. Unfortunately, McNeil’s path to a long NFL career was cut short due to a degenerative knee condition. The physical demands of professional football proved too great for his knee to withstand, and he was forced to hang up his cleats earlier than anticipated.
But McNeil didn’t leave the game behind. Instead, he found a new calling in coaching, where he could share his passion for football and his wealth of experience with the next generation of players. His coaching journey began at Auburn in 2007, where he returned to his alma mater as a graduate assistant. From there, he continued to climb the coaching ranks, making stops at several institutions along the way. He held coaching roles at Birmingham-Southern, the University of Tennessee, Alabama State, and the University of South Carolina. Most recently, McNeil served on the coaching staff at Tuskegee University, continuing his commitment to developing young talent and staying connected to the sport that shaped his life.
DeMarco McNeil’s legacy is not only defined by what he accomplished on the field but also by how he responded to adversity and transitioned into a mentorship role. His journey serves as an inspiration for young athletes—showing that even when dreams of playing professionally are cut short, there are still meaningful ways to impact the game.
As Auburn fans look ahead to the start of the 2025 season, reflecting on the contributions of players like McNeil brings a sense of pride and appreciation for the program’s history. Every jersey number tells a story, and number 92 carries the legacy of a player who embodied strength, resilience, and leadership. Whether stopping running backs in the backfield or guiding student-athletes from the sidelines, McNeil has always brought intensity, intelligence, and heart to everything he does.
With the season opener just a few months away, the Tigers’ faithful are reminded that while new stars will emerge this fall, the foundation of Auburn football has been laid by those who came before. As the countdown continues, each number provides a moment to celebrate those who have worn it with honor—and DeMarco McNeil is certainly worthy of that recognitions.
