Overview
- Cohen says he has already spoken with at least seven candidates and highlights Durkin’s energy, preparation and coaching lineage in his evaluation.
- The interim coach has not publicly declared he wants the permanent job, though he has said he expects to be at Auburn for a long time.
- Current players, including linebacker Xavier Atkins, and several commitments have expressed support for Durkin, and Cohen says their input is extremely valuable.
- Durkin’s background includes roles under Jimbo Fisher, Lane Kiffin, Jim Harbaugh and Urban Meyer, and his Maryland tenure ended in 2018 following a player’s death and toxic-culture allegations.
- Durkin’s debut was a 45-38 overtime loss to then-No. 16 Vanderbilt, with Mercer and the Iron Bowl ahead as the search continues with postseason timing in mind.