AUBURN, Ala. (AP) — Auburn has had “no contact whatsoever” with a man who allegedly tried to secure payment from Mississippi State during the recruitment of Tigers quarterback and Heisman Trophy hopeful Cam Newton, according to a person familiar with the situation.
The NCAA is reviewing the recruitment of Newton, but Auburn has not received a letter of inquiry, the person told The Associated Press on Friday on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to comment publicly.
“Cam’s eligibility has at no point been in jeopardy and he will play Saturday” against Chattanooga, the person said.
Former Mississippi State player John Bond (FSY) has said an ex-teammate — identified by ESPN.com, citing unidentified people, as Kenny Rogers— was soliciting payment during Newton’s recruitment by that school last season.
Bond said he reported the conversation with the former teammate to then-Mississippi State athletic director Greg Byrne.