Former Maryland coach D.J Durkin is going to shake up Auburn’s defense
An interesting tenure for Ron Roberts led to a mutual parting of ways. Solid DC but lacked institutional alignment and struggled on the recruiting trail, he has been replaced by both D.J Durkin and Co-DC Charles Kelley. A smart pairing will set Auburn up for both short term and long term success. Kelley has been a dominant recruiter in his career, especially at Alabama. He knows the Metro Atlanta area like the back of his hand as well as other key pipelines. Durkin on the other hand brings proficient, aggressive X’s and O’s that can be stifling for opposing offenses. Their first string looks solid individually but has the potential to be coached into playing above their pay grade.
Keldrick Faulk #15 DE
Big fan of Keldrick’s game, another true freshman contributor set for a big leap. The size of SEC lines was no issue for him last year and with improved technique he’ll be a nightmare on the edge for opposing tackles. The D-line lost star power in Marcus Harris leaving for the league, but Keldrick will be able to be that impact player himself.
Jayson Jones #99 NT
The nose is the weakest point of Auburn’s defense this year. Jayson is a solid player who doesn’t quite have the motor nor the technique to be a disruptive force. Could aren’t a double team in non-conference games due to his sheer size but unlikely a major factor against strong opponents.
Gage Keys #95 DT
Last time Auburn took a transfer DT from Kansas it worked out pretty well. While he doesn’t the physical tools of Marcus Harris he has a mean streak that can disrupt the run a few times a quarter. A quality depth piece for Vontrell King Williams entering his first season as a solo position coach.
Jalen Mcleod #35 Edge
It would surprise no one if Jalen was the star of this defense. While undersized he possesses an unlimited motor and is fast as lightning off the edge. If he can remain healthy he will be a key factor in Durkin’s play calling, he loves to be aggressive and Jalen can make teams pay off a blitz.
Austin Keys #6 MLB
Many remember Eugene Asante’s incredible play early in the season but forget about Austin’s. Before his injury he led a strong linebacker room with his physicality in the run game and respectful pass coverage. He is the quarterback of this defense and is an excellent tackler in the open field.
Eugene Asante #9 WLB
Eugene was a make or break player last season, he kept Auburn in games much longer than he should’ve been able to. The same will be asked of him again with a weaker defensive line, he’ll be sent on a blitz more frequently and will need to generate consistent pressure and fill gaps quickly.
Kayin Lee #4 CB
The last of the trio of impact true freshman from last year, Lee has big shoes to fill. The loss of D.J James to the NFL will be filled by Kayin. He showed flashes of great play during his first season but will need to improve as a tackler, not necessarily because he previously couldn’t but it will be required more from him and the rest of the secondary.
Jerrin Thompson #1 SS
Jaylin Simpson left for the NFL and Jerrin was the best case scenario for a replacement. The former Longhorn was instrumental in beating Alabama and Jalen Milroe last season. Followed by a strong season in both pass coverage and run support. He has the potential to become the big play maker similar to Jaylin Simpson.
Caleb Wooden #21 FS
A lot of excitement was around Wooden when he first arrived. He quickly made a name for himself besides being “Colby Wooden’s brother” in his freshman season. The excitement never truly transferred to the game but with a looser system in place it will allow to be in position to be a playmaker. Rather than a robot in an isolated zone.
Keionte Scott #0 BCB
After semi-entering the transfer portal after the season, Scott is officially back and ready to ball out once more. In an attempt to boost his profile to NFL scouts he will be changing to cover corner for added versatility. When healthy he is not only the best on the defense but often the best in the field. Returning Scott was priority number one in terms of player attrition this offseason and they got him.
Champ Anthony #25 STAR
The STAR position is without a doubt the most vital in D.J Durkin’s defense. He must have a playmaker that can generate pressure and disrupt the pass in the air. Anthony took steps last year in that role and is ready to assume it full time with Scott’s position change. Champ is a sleeper that will surprise many with his play this season.
While the intrigue of the defense isn’t as high as the offense, it will remain a solid unit. Durkin will steal a game with his aggressive calls and he’ll lose a game with his aggressive calls. It’s the price to pay when the trenches are weaker.
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