After spending five seasons coaching Auburn’s running backs, Carnell “Cadillac” Williams has decided not to return to the Tigers’ staff in 2024. He announced his resignation on Thursday night, stating that after prayer and reflection, he has chosen to step down from his position with Auburn football to explore other opportunities. Williams expressed deep love for Auburn, the players, and the AU family, emphasizing that this decision is in the best interest of himself, his wife, and sons. Grateful for the coaching opportunities provided by Coach Malzahn and Coach Freeze, Williams described his five years on the Plains as nothing short of incredible, acknowledging Auburn as a special part of his life.
During his coaching tenure, Williams, a former Tigers player from 2001-04, guided the team to the SEC’s fourth-ranked rush offense in yards per game in 2023, with the Tigers ranking 23rd nationally. In that season, Auburn averaged 189 rush yards per game, contributing to 53.8% of the team’s offensive production.
Head coach Hugh Freeze, the third Auburn coach under whom Williams served, expressed gratitude for Williams’ contributions to the program. Freeze acknowledged Williams’ leadership during a period of transition and praised him as one of the program’s all-time greats. While recognizing the difficulty of Williams’ decision, Freeze respected it and wished him nothing but the best.
With Williams’ departure, Auburn’s offensive staff now has its second opening, following the earlier dismissal of offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery.
