50 players Auburn fans should know: This USF transfer could make an impact in 2026
This former USF Bull could be an important player in Auburn's backfield this season
Olivia Bennett 
EDITOR’S NOTE: Leading up to the SEC Media Days on July 20, 205focus.com is highlighting one key Auburn football player each day. Today, we turn our attention to running back Nykahi Davenport.
6-feet, 216 pounds, Roswell, Georgia
In a deep transfer portal class for the Tigers, Nykahi Davenport stands out as the unique addition who already speaks the language of Auburn's new offense under Alex Golesh. Having followed his head coach from South Florida, Davenport was one of the program's first transfer signees this January, positioning himself as a primary contender for backfield snaps this fall.
Proven Production
Davenport arrives on the Plains after serving as a lead weapon for the USF backfield. While Golesh has characterized his current development as being like "a baby" in terms of potential, the numbers suggest he is ready for the SEC spotlight. After redshirting his freshman season, Davenport broke out in 2025, racking up 612 yards and seven touchdowns.
Standing 6-feet and 216 pounds, the Roswell, Georgia native brings a physical, downhill running style. His breakout performance came in a dominant 48-18 win over UAB, where he gashed the defense for 121 yards on 17 carries. Though he averaged 8.9 carries per game in 2025, his efficiency was notable; he closed the season strong, averaging 6.7 yards per carry over the final six games.
The Battle for Carries
Davenport enters a competitive room featuring established talents like Jeremiah Cobb and Bryson Washington. Despite the depth, Davenport looked comfortable during spring drills, pacing all running backs with 10 carries during the A-Day scrimmage where he totaled 41 yards.
With a Pro Football Focus-rated 3.68 yards after contact per attempt, he provides the same bruising capability as Washington, giving the staff multiple ways to attack on the ground. Auburn running backs coach Larry Porter is confident the transfer is ready for the jump in competition.
"He’s had enough productivity, he’s proven himself," Porter said. "I think this is a great opportunity for him to be on this stage to show he’s just as capable of doing it on this level."
COMING Saturday: We take a look at one of Auburn’s most dynamic returning defenders, defensive end Jared Smith.
