Head Coach Hugh Freeze has said repeatedly that Auburn’s defensive depth has been an issue since his arrival. In particular, the defensive line lacked the rotation needed to play the up-tempo offense Freeze prefers. But 2025 may finally be the year that changes. The D-line is deeper, more talented, and led by players who can shift the balance of a game.
Can This Group Be Great?
Comparisons have already begun to the legendary 2019 Auburn defensive front that featured Derrick Brown and Marlon Davidson—two early-round NFL Draft picks. Is that a fair expectation for this group?
Faulk may very well be a Derrick Brown-type game-wrecker, and Blocton could grow into a Davidson-level disruptor. They’re not there yet—but the physical tools and upside are real. For Auburn to reach a top-10 defensive level, as many believe they can, it starts up front with pressure and run-stopping.
Scheme Breakdown: Understanding the 3-3-5
Under defensive coordinator DJ Durkin, Auburn deploys a 3-3-5 base defense—three down linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs. Though it often presents as a four-man front thanks to the Buck edge rusher walking up, make no mistake: the three interior linemen are critical to the success of the scheme. Those three spots—defensive end, nose tackle, and defensive tackle—will be manned by players ready to anchor the defense.
Rotational Weapons
Auburn’s defensive front won’t be a three-man show. The return of Amaris Williams, the emergence of freshman phenom Jordan Crawford, and transfers like James Ash (FAMU) and Dallas Walker (Western Kentucky) provide quality depth. Young edge rushers Antonio Coleman and Jared Smith will also see snaps and could be vital in sub-packages and pass-rush situations.
Cleaning Up Third Down
Auburn’s Achilles heel in 2024 was third-down defense. Too often, opponents converted in critical moments. If this defensive line can take the next step—both in pass rush and in gap control—it will go a long way toward erasing that flaw.
And that’s exactly what DJ Durkin is banking on.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Auburn defensive line has the potential to be the best unit on the team—and possibly one of the best in the SEC. Led by a future pro in Keldric Faulk, supported by rising stars like Blocton and Jamison-Travis, and bolstered by talented depth, this group will be critical to Auburn’s success.
If they can stay healthy and grow together, the Tigers may just have the next great trench warfare unit on the Plains.
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