Auburn wide receiver Malcolm Simmons is getting ready for his sophomore season with the Tigers. He was expected to have a strong season after making 40 receptions for 451 yards and three TDs as a freshman. However, on July 16, he was arrested and charged with domestic assault with strangulation or suffocation. His bond was set at $20,000. Per a report from reporter Nathan King, Simmons filed for “youthful offender” status on Friday.
“This morning during his preliminary hearing, Auburn WR Malcom Simmons’ defense filed for “youthful offender” status, which made the case confidential as the judge reviews that request. If granted, details of the case will be completely private, and there will be no jury trial.”
This morning during his preliminary hearing, Auburn WR Malcom Simmons’ defense filed for “youthful offender” status, which made the case confidential as the judge reviews that request.
If granted, details of the case will be completely private, and there will be no jury trial.
— Nathan King (@NathanKing247) August 8, 2025
Simmons’ preliminary hearing was originally scheduled for Aug. 13 but was moved up to Aug. 8. According to Alabama state law, the charges against Simmons are classified as a Class B felony. If found guilty, he could face between two and 20 years in prison, along with a fine of up to $30,000.
The judge will review Simmons’ request for youthful offender status. If approved, it would make the case confidential. This means that during the trial, it would be a private case and there would not be a jury present.

Despite His Ongoing Legal Issues, Malcolm Simmons Has Participated in Auburn Tigers Training Camp
While Malcolm Simmons had his preliminary hearing for his domestic assault case on Friday, he has still been able to participate in Auburn Tigers training camp. At the start of camp, on July 30, head coach Hugh Freeze spoke with the media about the situation.
“Based on the information that I’ve been given from our administration that have knowledge of the matter, he’s been cleared to participate in team activities,” Freeze said. “That’s all the information I have.”
When asked to follow up about who gave Simmons permission to participate in team activities, Freeze gave a short response.
“Like I said earlier, based on the information that I’ve been given from the administration, he’s cleared to practice, and that’s all the information I have.”
The Auburn Tigers are scheduled to start their season on Aug. 29 against the Baylor Bears. As things stand, there is no indication that Simmons would not be permitted to participate.
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