Former Auburn Tigers Linebacker Signs With Vikings As UDFA

​Former Auburn Tigers linebacker Dorian Mausi has taken a significant step in his football career by signing with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft. Mausi, who led Auburn in tackles during the 2024 season, joins a group of former Tigers making their way to Minnesota, including linebacker Austin Keys, wide receiver Robert Lewis, and punter Oscar Chapman.

Mausi’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his resilience and determination. After transferring from Duke University, where he played for four seasons, Mausi made an immediate impact at Auburn. In his lone season with the Tigers, he recorded 81 total tackles, 9.0 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, two pass breakups, and a forced fumble over 12 games. His performance showcased his ability to adapt quickly and contribute significantly to a new defensive scheme.

Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 247 pounds, Mausi possesses the physical attributes that NFL teams look for in a linebacker. His instincts on the field, combined with his tackling prowess, make him a valuable asset on defense. While he went undrafted, his signing with the Vikings provides him with an opportunity to prove himself at the professional level.​

The Vikings have a history of finding talent among undrafted players, and Mausi aims to follow in the footsteps of those who have carved out successful careers after entering the league without being drafted. His versatility and experience could make him a candidate for special teams contributions, a common pathway for undrafted players to secure a spot on the roster.​

Joining Mausi in Minnesota is fellow linebacker Austin Keys, who also transferred to Auburn after spending time at Ole Miss. Keys played in 12 games during the 2024 season, tallying 39 tackles and two pass deflections. The presence of two former Auburn linebackers adds a layer of familiarity as they transition to the professional ranks together.

Wide receiver Robert Lewis and punter Oscar Chapman round out the group of former Tigers signing with the Vikings. Lewis, who transferred from Georgia State, caught 16 passes for 155 yards in 11 games during the 2024 season. Chapman, known for his strong leg and consistency, will compete for the punting job in Minnesota.

The influx of Auburn talent to the Vikings underscores the team’s commitment to identifying and developing players who may have been overlooked during the draft. For Mausi, Keys, Lewis, and Chapman, the opportunity to compete at the highest level is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication. 

As training camp approaches, Mausi will have the chance to showcase his skills and earn a spot on the Vikings’ roster. His journey from Duke to Auburn and now to the NFL serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that perseverance and performance can open doors, even when the path is unconventional.​

The Minnesota Vikings’ decision to sign multiple undrafted players from Auburn reflects a strategic approach to building depth and fostering competition within the team. For Mausi and his fellow former Tigers, the next chapter of their football careers begins with the opportunity to make an impact in the NFL.​