As of April 2025, Auburn football is actively addressing several key positions through the spring transfer portal to bolster its roster for the upcoming season. After a challenging 5–7 campaign in 2024, head coach Hugh Freeze is focusing on areas that require immediate attention, aiming to enhance both depth and talent across the team.
Quarterback
The quarterback position is a primary concern for Auburn following the departures of Payton Thorne, Hank Brown, and Holden Geriner. Currently, the roster includes Walker White and Deuce Knight, both of whom are relatively inexperienced at the collegiate level. To strengthen this position, Auburn is targeting experienced quarterbacks from the transfer portal. Notable prospects include Oklahoma’s Jackson Arnold and Duke’s Maalik Murphy, both of whom have entered the portal and are considered top-tier targets for the Tigers.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is another critical area for improvement. Auburn is seeking to secure a proven left tackle to anchor the line, addressing inconsistencies from the previous season. The team is also looking to bolster depth across the offensive line to ensure stability and performance throughout the season.
Running Back
With the departure of Jarquez Hunter to the NFL Draft, Auburn is in need of a dynamic running back to lead the offense. Damari Alston is expected to step into the starting role, but the team is also considering additional options. The Tigers have already added Durrell Robinson from UConn, who had an impressive freshman season with 731 yards and eight touchdowns. Additionally, true freshman Alvin Henderson, a standout in Alabama high school football, joins the team, though his transition to college football remains to be seen.
Linebacker
The linebacker corps has undergone significant changes with the graduation of key players such as Eugene Asante, Jalen McLeod, and Dorian Mausi Jr. Demarcus Riddick is the primary returning linebacker and is expected to take on a leadership role. However, Auburn is looking to add experienced linebackers to the roster to provide depth and leadership. Fresno State transfer Phoenix Jackson, who had the highest PFF coverage grade among linebackers last season, is one potential addition.
Defensive Line
The departure of Isaiah Raikes and Jayson Jones has left a void in the defensive line, particularly at the nose guard position. Quientrail Jamison-Travis is the primary returner, but depth remains a concern. Auburn is actively seeking to add talent to the defensive line to strengthen this unit.
Wide Receiver
While Auburn has promising young receivers like Cam Coleman and Malcolm Simmons, the team is looking to add a veteran presence to the wide receiver corps. Physical and experienced receivers are a priority to provide leadership and enhance the passing game. Mississippi State’s Rara Thomas has been among the players Auburn has shown interest in, aiming to bring in one or two impactful receivers.
Cornerback
The cornerback position is another area where Auburn is seeking to add depth and talent. While the team has players like Kayin Lee and Champ Anthony, the addition of a quality cornerback is considered beneficial. Former UCF cornerback Chasen Johnson is one potential target, and Auburn is expected to pursue at least one outside cornerback to bolster this position.
Kicker
Special teams play a crucial role in a team’s success, and Auburn is addressing the kicker position due to concerns over consistency. If Alex McPherson is not healthy enough to return, the Tigers will look to upgrade the position to ensure reliability in field goal attempts and kickoffs.
Auburn football is strategically targeting several key positions through the spring transfer portal to enhance its roster. The primary areas of focus include quarterback, offensive line, running back, linebacker, defensive line, wide receiver, cornerback, and kicker. By addressing these positions, Auburn aims to improve its performance and competitiveness in the upcoming season.
