Auburn continued its aggressive work in the transfer portal Sunday, making a significant addition to its roster as the Tigers addressed a major area of need ahead of the 2026 season. The move adds experience, size, and immediate competition to a unit that underwent heavy turnover following the 2025 campaign.
The signing represents another key step for first-year head coach Alex Golesh as he shapes his inaugural roster on the Plains. Auburn has been one of the most active programs in the portal this cycle, emphasizing immediate contributors and roster balance as the team transitions into a new era.
The timing of the move is notable, coming during the January transfer window, which remains open until Jan. 16 for players to enter.
Auburn’s staff moved quickly following an official visit earlier this month, securing a commitment that strengthens the Tigers’ defensive outlook heading into spring practice.
The addition is Florida State transfer cornerback Shamar Arnoux, a former blue-chip recruit who appeared in 11 games as a true freshman in 2025, making four starts. The 6-foot-2 defensive back recorded 27 tackles and logged 345 snaps, bringing valuable Power Four experience and three years of eligibility to Auburn’s secondary.
The signing directly addresses a pressing need for the Tigers, who lost both starting cornerbacks and multiple depth pieces to the transfer portal after the 2025 season. With competition expected to be wide open, the newest addition is projected to compete immediately for a starting role as Auburn continues rebuilding its defense for the 2026 season.