Auburn Linebackers: Experienced, Battle-Tested

0:00On April 13th, Auburn Tigers linebackers headed into last year's 2025 season as the youngest crew on defense, but for 20. 26. They're flipping the script with real experience. Key guys like Xavier Atkins, DeMarcus Ridic, and Elijah Melendez are coming back, giving this group a solid core under defensive coordinator DJ. Durkin. Head coach Alice Gillesch can't say enough good things about Durkin on how the defense is shaping up. Especially compared to the offense, which lost some, pieces through the transfer portal. Still, the D-held strong with these returners, and Atkins led the pack last year with 84 tackles, nine sacks, and interception, and two forced fumbles. Fans and coaches see this as a huge boost, building a foundation that was missing before. Ridic brought the most snaps as a rookie last season, while Melendez added interceptions and speed perfect makes for stopping runs and covering. Passes. They did lose Robert Woodyard Jr. to Missouri, and Caleb Wheatland to Michigan State, but snagged Michael Matthews Canty from Hampton, a junior with.

1:06Over a hundred tackles and some sacks to deepen the rotation. Spring practice is rolling right now. With the A-Day game hitting Jordan Hare Stadium this Saturday, eyes are on how this battle test and linebacker room jails early, setting Auburn up strong. For whatever 2026 throws their way, that's your update from Auburn Tigers football news today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story.