Auburn continued to stay aggressive in the transfer portal Thursday night, adding another defensive piece as the Tigers reshape their roster ahead of the upcoming season. The latest move reinforces Auburn’s clear focus on strengthening the middle of its defense while adding experienced depth to a unit expected to play a major role this fall.
The Tigers have wasted little time attacking roster needs this offseason, stacking additions across multiple positions. Linebacker has been a priority, and this pickup adds both physicality and proven production, giving Auburn another dependable option in a defense that is being rebuilt with speed, toughness, and competition in mind.
That addition is Micheal Mathews-Canty, a transfer from Hampton who brings two years of remaining eligibility along with a redshirt season. Coming from the HBCU level, he arrives with a strong résumé and immediate credibility after emerging as one of his former team’s most productive defenders.
Last season, the linebacker put together an impressive campaign, racking up 78 total tackles while consistently making plays near the line of scrimmage. His ability to diagnose plays, finish tackles, and disrupt opposing offenses helped him stand out and made him an appealing target for a Power Four program looking for ready-made contributors.
He now enters a linebacker room that already features experienced returners, creating added competition and depth across the unit. Auburn’s coaching staff has emphasized the importance of rotation and consistency on defense, and this addition fits neatly into that philosophy while raising the overall floor of the position group.
With another portal win secured, Auburn continues to signal its intent to reload quickly and effectively. As offseason preparations move forward, the Tigers are assembling a defense built to be more physical, disciplined, and reliable — and this latest signing represents another meaningful step toward that goal.