Auburn continues to stay active in the transfer portal, adding another intriguing piece to its 2026 roster puzzle. The latest addition: former Louisiana-Monroe quarterback Hunter Herring, who’s making the move to the Plains with a position switch in tow.
Herring, listed at 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, is expected to transition to tight end at Auburn - a move that speaks as much to his athletic versatility as it does to Auburn’s evolving needs on offense. At ULM, Herring was a do-it-all contributor, lining up at multiple spots on offense and even contributing on special teams.
He wrapped up the 2025 season with 111 passing yards and 57 rushing yards - modest numbers, but they only tell part of the story. His frame and athleticism suggest there’s untapped potential, especially in a new role that could better showcase his physical tools.
Auburn’s tight end room has undergone a near-total overhaul. After losing four players from last year’s group, the Tigers have aggressively reloaded, bringing in five newcomers between the transfer portal and the high school ranks. Herring becomes the fourth tight end added via the portal, giving Auburn a completely reshaped unit heading into spring ball.
The Tigers clearly aren’t just looking for bodies - they’re targeting versatility, size, and upside. Herring fits that mold. His background as a quarterback could give Auburn some creative options in the playbook, whether it’s motion looks, gadget plays, or simply a tight end with a deeper understanding of route concepts and defensive coverages.
While the portal officially closed for new entries last Friday, players already in the portal can still sign with schools - and Auburn is taking full advantage of that window. With roster spots still in flux and spring practices on the horizon, the Tigers are making sure they’re not just filling holes, but adding pieces that can contribute in multiple ways.
Bottom line: Auburn’s tight end room isn’t just rebuilt - it’s reimagined. And Hunter Herring could end up being one of the more intriguing chess pieces in that new-look group.