Auburn safety Jaylin Simpson was named to the Associated Press midseason first-team All-American group after his ball-hawking play on the back end of Auburn’s defense to begin the 2023 season.

Simpson is tied for fourth in the nation with four interceptions, one behind the national lead. He very nearly got another interception during the first half against LSU as he got his hands on a ball that wound up being tipped into the air and was picked off by cornerback D.J. James.

Auburn’s defense has been the team’s strength in what’s thus far been a topsy-turvy season, and Simpson has been its best player.

He was one of five fifth-year players selected to the first team.

Simpson was the only Auburn player selected to the midseason group.

He is working his way back to full health, head coach Hugh Freeze said during a press conference Monday, but played against LSU at less than 100%.

Auburn will host Ole Miss at 6 p.m. Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Matt Cohen covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @Matt_Cohen_ or email him at [email protected]