In what could potentially be a significant blow to Auburn’s defense via the transfer portal, there are indications that defensive back Keionte Scott might enter his name, as reported by 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz. Having played a crucial role as a vocal leader for two seasons since transferring from Snow College, Scott has become one of Auburn’s standout defensive players. His expected departure would leave Auburn without any experienced players in the secondary for the upcoming 2024 season.
Although Scott has not officially entered the transfer portal, and his potential departure is not certain, the impact on Auburn’s plans for 2024 would be substantial if he decides to leave. Scott, who primarily played the STAR position as a nickel cornerback, excelled in this role. Additionally, he showcased his skills as a dynamic punt returner during the season, averaging 14.8 yards per return and scoring a touchdown against Arkansas.
https://twitter.com/mzenitz/status/1743473829354123762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1743473829354123762%7Ctwgr%5Ebedda699032d50df426f8e78065f3c1b96ecb603%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.al.com%2Fauburnfootball%2F2024%2F01%2Fauburn-star-defensive-back-keionte-scott-plans-to-enter-transfer-portal-per-report.html
Before Auburn’s bowl game, there were speculations about Scott possibly moving on to the NFL. However, he surprised many by announcing his return to Auburn for the 2024 season through a video posted on December 11. Scott, an active recruiter on social media, especially on X (formerly known as Twitter), openly shared his plans to contribute as a closer on the recruiting trail for Auburn.
https://twitter.com/KeionteS/status/1734256819978097047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1734256819978097047%7Ctwgr%5Ebedda699032d50df426f8e78065f3c1b96ecb603%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.al.com%2Fauburnfootball%2F2024%2F01%2Fauburn-star-defensive-back-keionte-scott-plans-to-enter-transfer-portal-per-report.html
Furthermore, he expressed his intention to transition to an outside cornerback role for Auburn in 2024, after playing the inside role in 2023. Despite missing three games in the 2023 season due to a mid-season ankle injury, Scott’s overall contributions in 22 career games with Auburn included 97 total tackles, one interception, and nine passes defended.
If Scott were to leave, Auburn’s defense would face the challenge of replacing its entire secondary from the 2023 season, including Scott, Puckett, Jaylin Simpson, Nehemiah Pritchett, and DJ James. Additionally, there is news that former Auburn secondary coach Wesley McGriff is set to join the staff of new Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko for the 2024 season.
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