One of the many teams in this year’s SEC that features an overhauled roster and a new head coach. Auburn and new head coach Alex Golish look to rebound from the tumultuous Hugh Freeze era.
The Tigers haven’t eclipsed six wins since 2019, and now they bring in an entirely new roster led by dynamic QB Byrum Brown. It’s going to take a lot more than just Byrum Brown thriving in his first year in the SEC for the Tigers to succeed.
Here are five players who can break out in the SEC and potentially bring Auburn back to relevance.
Bryce Deas, Linebacker
Nov 29, 2025; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers linebacker Bryce Deas (16) tackles Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jamarion Miller. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-Imagn Images
A former four-star recruit out of Maryland. Deas is a sophomore who should step into a bigger role this year after playing mostly on special teams last season and only making one start.
After posting just 12 total tackles, with 8 solo, Deas is bound for more reps due to his absurd athleticism and strong coverage skills.
Deas has a track background and ran a 4.5 40-yard dash. That speed, combined with his 6’1 and 225-pound frame, makes him a pest to deal with in space and a great asset against fast-paced offenses.
Jared Smith, EDGE
Auburn had one of the best edge rushers in the country last season, in Keldric Faulk. He’s gone now, and the Tigers’ pass rush will need a breakout star. Enter Jared Smith. The former four-star out of Alabama showed flashes in 2025, posting 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble.
Smith will have a much more elevated role in the Tigers’ pass rush and possesses the frame to dominate in the SEC. The 6’6 and 260-pound pass rusher has great maneuverability for his size and has a natural knack for making plays.
Gavin Jenkins, Cornerback
Part of the litter of players who followed Golish from South Florida to Auburn. Gavin Jenkins had limited snaps last season for USF, recording 5 total tackles, 2 of them solo. Even though there isn’t extensive tape, Jenkins has the physical intangibles to be a matchup nightmare.
Jenkins is the tallest corner on the roster, standing 6’2, also weighing just under 200 pounds. His length and longer arms are going to cause trouble for receivers by batting away passes and disrupting passing lanes.
DeShawn Spencer, Wide Receiver
Auburn Tigers wide receiver DeShawn Spencer (9) runs drills during practice. on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
Spencer is a true freshman who has big shoes to fill since Auburn’s WR room has been overhauled. Both Cam Coleman and Eric Singleton Jr departing into the portal means Auburn needs a blue-chipper to rise up.
A running back turned slot receiver, Spencer has versatility written all over him. His athletic profile is that of a receiver who can be a yards-after-catch monster and even still operate in the backfield when Golish gets creative with his formations.
Stanton Ramil, Offensive Lineman
Jul 24, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Michigan State offensive lineman Stanton Ramil speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images
Ramil is going to stand out on everyone’s screens this season, as he stands 6’7 and weighs just under 315 pounds.
Not only is Ramil a mountain of a human, but he is going to be the most important player on the Auburn offensive line. Playing left tackle, Ramil will be protecting Byrum Brown’s blindside.
Ramil transferred to Auburn from Michigan State, but has familiarity with the program since he’s from Alabama and was recruited by the Tigers out of high school.
