Previewing Auburn’s defensive line going into preseason camp

Last season, the defensive line served as the backbone of the Auburn defense. As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming campaign, the unit faces the tall task of replicating that high-level production with a significantly retooled roster.

A New Look Up Front

Auburn enters the season searching for new sparks after bidding farewell to a host of primary contributors. Key impact players from a year ago—including pass rushers Keldric Faulk and Keyron Crawford, alongside interior mainstays Malik Blocton and Bobby Jamison-Travis—have departed, leaving a void for the next wave of talent to fill.

While the current group features a blend of returners and transfers, many of these players are preparing for their first major taste of SEC competition. Here is how the depth chart looks as the Tigers head into preseason camp.

Roster Breakdown

Returners (8): Malik Autry, Jourdin Crawford, Darrion Smith, Dallas Walker IV, Chris Murray (edge), JJ Faulk (edge), Joe Phillips (edge), Jared Smith (edge)

Newcomers (9): Cody Sigler, Saint Farrior, Walter Mathis Jr., Tavian Branch, Corey Wells, Chris Wells (edge), Nate Johnson (edge), Da’Shawn Womack (edge), Jaquez Wilkes (edge)

Projected starters: Jared Smith, Cody Sigler, Dallas Walker IV, Da’Shawn Womack

The Interior Rotation

Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has a history of leaning on deep rotations, often utilizing up to six players across the two interior spots. This season should be no different. While Dallas Walker IV and Arkansas State transfer Cody Sigler possess the veteran experience to lead, don't be surprised to see Malik Autry, Jourdin Crawford, and Walter Mathis Jr. command significant playing time.

Walker remains a critical figure on the interior, carrying over the momentum from his substantial role last season. Meanwhile, Sigler brings a proven track record as a disruptive force; he logged 31 pressures in the Sun Belt last season, according to Pro Football Focus.

The Edge Rush

The pressure responsibilities largely fall to Jared Smith and Da’Shawn Womack. Smith, a former five-star recruit out of Thompson High School, boasts perhaps the highest ceiling on the entire line. However, he enters the season needing to prove his impact as a full-time starter.

Womack brings a wealth of experience from his stops at LSU and Ole Miss. Regarding his availability following a June arrest, Alex Golesh noted during SEC Media Days that the legal process is still ongoing, though the program has already handled its internal discipline.

Breakout Candidate: Jared Smith

If Auburn wants to boast an above-average pass rush, unlocking Smith’s potential is key. The 6-foot-6, 260-pound edge rusher only saw action for 110 snaps last year per PFF, but his athletic tools are undeniable.

Smith provided a glimpse of his upside during spring practice, capping it off with a Defensive MVP performance at the A-Day scrimmage, where he hauled in an interception. While he continues to refine his technique, his natural playmaking ability makes him a difficult asset to keep off the field.