Whether it was on the field or off, Sammie Coates is the definition of the Auburn Family. His character off the field and his heart on the field is what makes him such a great role model for kids and Auburn faithful alike. He was never flashy in public, always humble and supportive of the community of fans that love him.  

As we saw on ESPN earlier this year, it was not just what Sammie did on the field that made him special.  It was his huge heart off the field.  The friendship that he developed with 12 year-old leukemia patient Kenzie Ray shows the rest of us that it wasn't just about making it to the pros for Sammie.  Yes, we will never forget number 18 on the field, but it is stories like his friendship with Kenzie that shows us everything we need to know about his character.

Yesterday, December 15th, 2014, Sammie announced his decision to enter the NFL Draft and forego his senior season.  After a 201 yard, two touchdown performance in the Iron Bowl, it is hard to argue with his decision, and he will be missed.  But just as he has shown off the field, his character and fight on the field is what makes him an Auburn Tiger.  Sammie fought injuries at the beginning of the season, but once he was healthy, he was able to step right back into the role that he played in the 2013 season.

Whether it was the touchdown he scored against Alabama to tie the game in the 2013 Iron Bowl, or his monstrous stiff arm against Texas A&M in 2013, it's hard to say goodbye to a player who left everything on the field.  There aren't a lot of receivers that have come out of Auburn that will always be remembered, but I have a feeling that Sammie's NFL career will only make us Tiger fans even more proud of number 18.  

Like I said before, it is never easy saying goodbye, but I couldn't be more proud of the man and player that Mr. Coates is and I wish him the best of luck in the future. I personally can't wait to be watching you out on the field on Sunday afternoons. War Eagle.