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Auburn Linebacker Demarcus Riddick Announces Return for 2026

The move helps preserve continuity at linebacker during a projected wave of transfer-portal departures.

Overview

  • Riddick revealed his decision Thursday on social media, becoming the second confirmed return at linebacker alongside All-American Xavier Atkins.
  • After an SEC All-Freshman season in 2024, he played through a shoulder injury in 2025, underwent surgery, and missed the final two games.
  • He logged 13 tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack and two pass breakups in 10 games in 2025 after posting 27 tackles, five TFLs and three sacks in 2024.
  • Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has praised Riddick’s length, speed and pass-rush ability, calling him a matchup problem on pressure.
  • Local outlets report Auburn expects roughly 30 players to enter the portal when it opens Friday, with starter Robert Woodyard Jr. planning to leave and names such as Cam Coleman and Deuce Knight among those anticipated.