Auburn’s cornerback picture is one of the biggest questions hanging over fall camp, and it could wind up shaping how far DJ Durkin’s defense can go in 2026.
With first-year head coach Alex Golesh set to open camp, the Tigers still have several jobs up for grabs, but few look as important as the battle in the secondary. Auburn gets Week 1 against Baylor in Atlanta, and the cornerback room will be one of the spots worth watching closely all month long.
The production at corner is nearly wiped clean for 2026, but a few familiar names are still in line for major responsibilities under Durkin, who remains the defensive coordinator through the coaching change.
Rayshawn Pleasant is expected to be one of the early starters. He may still be Auburn’s top returner, but he is also in position to move from depth option to regular contributor after serving as a solid reserve last season.
Andre Jordan Jr. looks like the other likely piece on the outside. Auburn brought him in from UCLA this offseason, and among the defensive backs on the roster, he brings the most proven Power Four experience. That gives him a real chance to steady one side of the field right away.
Beyond those two, the door is open for others to force their way into the mix. Gavin Jenkins is one name to keep front and center, especially after Golesh singled him out at SEC Media Days. Golesh called Jenkins an "NFL Caliber player," a strong endorsement for a corner who could still play his way into a starting role before the season kicks off.
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Auburn Fall Camp Will Decide Which New Faces Force Their Way Up
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Bryson Washington remains one of the more intriguing names to watch after the Baylor transfer joined the running back mix, while sophomore Blake Woodby gives the defensive backfield another young option trying to carve out a role. The guard spots on the offensive line are also unresolved, adding another layer of intrigue to a camp that could quickly reshape how Auburn fills out its two-deep. [Read more 🡒]