With a new head coach and staff taking over — combined with the chaos of the transfer portal — it felt inevitable that Auburn would experience significant roster turnover between the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
Alex Golesh arrived on the Plains with a clear vision for rebuilding the program after five consecutive losing campaigns. While the success of that plan won’t be fully known until Auburn hits the field, the offseason has already been marked by the departure of several impactful players who sought opportunities elsewhere.
So which losses sting the most? Here’s a look at Auburn’s five biggest transfer portal departures this offseason.
1. Deuce Knight (QB)
Some may argue Cam Coleman deserves the top spot, but Knight’s departure hits differently. With all four years of eligibility still intact, Knight represented a long-term solution at quarterback. His move to SEC rival Ole Miss — a team Auburn will face this season — only amplifies the pain. While Golesh brought in Byrum Brown to lead the offense, Knight could have just as easily been the quarterback to launch Auburn’s next era.
2. Cam Coleman (WR)
Losing the top player in the transfer portal is never easy, and losing a talent like Coleman is even tougher. His numbers at Auburn never fully reflected his ability, largely due to inconsistent quarterback play. Now paired with Arch Manning, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Coleman eclipse 1,000 receiving yards in his new offense.
3. Amaris Williams (DL)
Williams appeared to be on the verge of a breakout before leaving Auburn for Georgia. The sophomore flashed his potential with six tackles for loss and now heads to Athens with hopes of becoming the next standout defensive lineman in the Bulldogs’ pipeline.
4. Eric Singleton Jr. (WR)
Singleton initially declared for the NFL Draft before reversing course and transferring to Florida to play for new head coach Jon Sumrall. He was another casualty of Auburn’s limited passing attack, finishing the season with 58 receptions for 538 yards and three touchdowns — two of which came in a Week 2 blowout of Ball State. Auburn fans will see him back in Jordan-Hare Stadium when the Gators visit the Plains this season.
5. Malik Blocton (DL)
Like Williams, Blocton was still developing during his time at Auburn and appeared poised for a breakout in 2026. Instead, he’ll now look to make his mark under Lane Kiffin at LSU, where increased playing time could lead to a jump in production.
Honorable Mentions: Horatio Fields (WR), Kayin Lee (CB), Perry Thompson (WR)