Overview
- Golesh called keeping Durkin an easy call, citing a 20-year relationship and praising him as one of the top defensive minds in college football.
- Durkin’s unit delivered Auburn’s best rushing defense since 2010 and held opponents to roughly 20 points per game in 2025, reinforcing the case for continuity.
- After saying a decision would come within 48 hours at his introduction, Golesh and Auburn confirmed Durkin’s return on Tuesday.
- Golesh outlined a minute-by-minute six‑month plan prioritizing staff hires, recruiting and meetings with current players, with multiple outlets reporting he is expected to bring USF assistants, including OC Joel Gordon.
- Athletic director John Cohen emphasized a deliberate, largely confidential search and urged fan support in a letter, as players and observers noted Durkin’s retention could aid roster stability ahead of signing and portal windows.