Auburn continues to strengthen its roster heading into the 2026 season, and the Tigers have taken a major step toward solidifying one of their most important position groups. The running back room, already showing promise, just received another significant boost.
The Tigers prioritized experience and production this offseason, especially in the backfield. With consistency and physicality at a premium in the SEC, Auburn’s staff targeted a battle-tested runner capable of contributing immediately and handling a heavy workload.
That approach reflects a larger strategy under head coach Hugh Freeze: add proven talent through the transfer portal while retaining key contributors already on the roster. The result is a deeper, more competitive running back group built to withstand the grind of an SEC schedule.
That plan paid off with the addition of Bryson Washington, the former Baylor standout who spent three seasons in Waco. Washington rushed for 788 yards in 2025 and posted his best season in 2024, when he eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards and scored 12 touchdowns, ranking seventh in the Big 12 in both categories.
With Washington now in the fold, Auburn adds a physical, experienced runner to a backfield that’s shaping up to be one of the team’s strengths. As the Tigers prepare for 2026, the run game looks reloaded—and ready to make a statement.