In a continuing saga clouded by uncertainty, it doesn’t appear Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter will start or even play in Auburn’s season opener against UMass. When Hunter took the field on Saturday, he wore only his jersey and sweatpants.

Over the summer, a sex tape video was leaked that allegedly showed Hunter. Soon afterward, Auburn officials stated multiple football players would receive indefinite suspensions but did not state who or why.

Leading into Auburn’s fall camp, head coach Hugh Freeze repeatedly declined to comment when asked about Hunter’s status going forward.

Then, Hunter did not participate in either of Auburn’s first two practices during periods open to the media. He was seen practicing on Tuesday, Aug. 8 during the time available to reporters and has practiced ever since.

This week, Freeze was asked if Hunter would be available to play against UMass, or if there is any suspension attached to him, and Freeze made a blanket statement for the whole team without directly addressing Hunter.

“I don’t discuss who’s playing and who’s not,” Freeze said. “We hope everybody is healthy enough to play.”

Hunter has been expected to be Auburn’s lead back this season, coming off a year where he showed flashes of his potential as Auburn’s third-leading rusher behind Tank Bigsby and Robby Ashford. He is regarded as Auburn’s best offensive players, and the leader of a very deep running back to room.

In his absence, sophomore Damari Alston started, after he had a strong camp that included many big plays with his legs during Auburn’s scrimmages.

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