Auburn’s backfield is getting a serious facelift - and it’s not just a fresh coat of paint. After pulling in 25 offensive players from the transfer portal, the Tigers are retooling in a big way, and nowhere is that more evident than at running back.
The return of Jeremiah Cobb gives the offense a proven foundation, but he won’t be alone in the spotlight this fall. Auburn has added three new backs with distinct styles, each bringing something different to the table in Alex Golesh’s up-tempo system.
Let’s break down what this revamped running back room looks like heading into spring ball - and what fans can expect from a group that’s shaping up to be a key part of Auburn’s offensive identity in 2026.
Jeremiah Cobb: The Returning Leader
First things first - Jeremiah Cobb is back, and that’s a big deal. The junior rushed for 969 yards and five touchdowns last season, including five 100-yard games. He was Auburn’s most consistent offensive weapon in 2025, and with one year of eligibility left, he’s expected to be both a leader in the locker room and a focal point on the field.
With so much roster turnover, Cobb’s experience and production make him a likely candidate for team captain. His vision, burst, and ability to find daylight between the tackles will be even more valuable as Auburn transitions into Golesh’s high-tempo offense. He won’t carry the load alone, but make no mistake - this is still Cobb’s backfield to lead.
Nykahi Davenport: The Developmental Power Back
Enter Nykahi Davenport, a transfer from USF who brings plenty of upside and three years of eligibility to work with. He rushed for 612 yards and seven touchdowns on just 98 carries last season, showing off a nose for the end zone and the kind of physicality that could thrive in the SEC.
At 6-foot, 216 pounds, Davenport already has the frame to handle a heavy workload, and with time in an SEC strength program, he could add even more muscle to his game. He’s no stranger to Golesh’s system either, having played under him at USF, which gives him a head start in learning the playbook. Don’t be surprised if he carves out a role early, especially in short-yardage and red zone situations.
With sophomores Alvin Henderson and Omar Mabson also in the mix, Davenport is part of a younger core that Auburn can build around for the future - even as Cobb leads the way this year.
Bryson Washington: The Proven Producer
If Auburn was looking for a back who could contribute right away, they found their guy in Bryson Washington. The former Baylor standout rushed for 788 yards in 2025, but it was his 2024 campaign that really turned heads - 1,028 yards and 12 touchdowns, ranking him seventh in both categories in the Big 12.
Washington brings a downhill, physical running style that pairs perfectly with Cobb’s elusiveness. He’s the kind of back who can wear down a defense in the second half, and in Golesh’s system, which thrives on tempo and spacing, that combination of power and pace could be lethal.
Auburn has a rich history of dynamic running back duos, and Washington’s arrival gives the Tigers a chance to recapture that magic. If he and Cobb can find rhythm together, Auburn’s ground game could be one of the most balanced and dangerous in the SEC.
Tae Meadows: The Versatile Veteran
Rounding out the group is Tae Meadows, a Roanoke, Alabama native who spent the last three seasons at Troy. In 2025, he rushed for 695 yards and six touchdowns, flashing the kind of speed and agility that could make him a weapon in Golesh’s offense.
Meadows only has one year of eligibility remaining, but his skill set gives Auburn flexibility. He’s quick out of the backfield and could be used as a change-of-pace option or lined up in the slot as a receiving threat. His lone 100-yard game last year doesn’t tell the full story - Meadows brings a layer of versatility that could help Auburn keep defenses guessing.
What It All Means for Auburn’s Offense
There’s no clear-cut rotation just yet - and that’s a good thing. Auburn has options, and each back brings a different flavor to the offense. Cobb is the steady hand, Washington the bruiser, Davenport the developmental powerhouse, and Meadows the utility knife.
With Golesh at the helm, expect Auburn to lean on tempo, spacing, and a committee approach in the backfield. The Tigers may not have a single 1,500-yard rusher, but they could have multiple backs pushing 700-800 yards if things click.
Bottom line: Auburn’s ground game is going to be a focal point in 2026. And with this much talent in the room, it’s not just about replacing production - it’s about elevating it.