Overview
- Linebacker Demarcus Riddick announced on social media that he will return for 2026, joining fellow linebacker Xavier Atkins.
- Defenders Malik Autry and Jourdin Crawford on the line and linebacker Elijah Melendez also said they will be back next season.
- Riddick played through a shoulder injury in 2025, had surgery that sidelined him for the final two games, and finished with 13 tackles.
- Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin recently lauded Riddick’s length, speed and coverage ability, calling his ceiling very high.
- Reporting indicates Auburn could see roughly 30 players enter the portal when it opens Jan. 2, with starter Robert Woodyard Jr. planning to leave.