Auburn’s secondary is experiencing a setback as a valuable player departs for the Transfer Portal. In the 2023 season, Auburn ranked #31 in the NCAA’s top pass defenses, according to the college football statistical website CFB Stats. Despite the upcoming infusion of talent from the 2024 recruiting class, the departure of an experienced defensive member poses a significant challenge.
Donovan Kaufman, a safety, is leaving Auburn after contributing for three years, accumulating 109 tackles, 5 passes defended, 6 forced fumbles, 2 sacks, and 1 interception, as indicated on his ESPN profile.
In the 2023 season, Auburn’s overall defensive performance included 12 interceptions, 46 pass breakups, 38 quarterback hurries, and 8 forced fumbles. The impact of the Transfer Portal on Hugh Freeze and the entire secondary remains uncertain and is worth monitoring.
Auburn has already acquired former Texas safety Jerrin Thompson through the Transfer Portal. It’s possible that another defensive back may be added, with the option of waiting for the Transfer Portal window from April 15-30 to explore further opportunities.