Irons initially signed with the University of South Carolina to play for then-head coach Lou Holtz.

Kenny participated in the Auburn A-Day Spring Game, but was ineligible to play the following year due to NCAA regulations.

While sitting out the 2004 season, Irons was able to apprentice under future NFL players Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown.

Irons entered the 2005 season as the backup running back, but took over the starting role after Brad Lester was injured in a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks.

His 2005 rushing total was the 6th best in Auburn history, placing Irons behind greats like Bo Jackson, Cadillac Williams, and future Cincinnati Bengal teammate, Rudi Johnson.

Following the completion of his senior football season, Irons recovered from his injuries and began to work out and prepare for the 2007 NFL draft.