The Great Reset: Over 25 Players Depart as Golesh Reshapes Auburn

AUBURN, Ala. — The Christmas break brought no peace to the Plains. Between December 24 and December 27, the Auburn football roster underwent a seismic shift that confirms what many suspected: Alex Golesh is building from scratch.

The Departures

The most significant loss came on December 26, when starting offensive tackle Xavier Chaplin announced his intention to transfer. Chaplin had started all 12 games in 2025 and was a rare bright spot on the line.

He joins a staggering list of announced departures that now approaches 25 scholarship players. Notable names include:

• DeAndre Carter (OL): A highly touted prospect who never found his footing.
• Keionte Scott (CB): A senior leader in the secondary who is seeking a fresh start for his final year.
• Sam Jackson (WR): Entered the portal on Dec 27.
• Kayin Lee (CB): A verified departure that leaves the secondary thin.

The Arrivals

But the portal swings both ways. Sources confirm that USF quarterback Byrum Brown has entered the portal and is "heavily leaning" toward reuniting with Golesh at Auburn. Brown's dual-threat ability is the engine that makes Golesh's veer-and-shoot offense hum.

Additionally, Auburn secured a commitment from Stanford quarterback Ashton Daniels earlier in the week, creating a fascinating QB competition for the spring.

Analysis: The "Prime" Model?

While not quite at the level of Deion Sanders' Colorado flip, Golesh is clearly uncomfortable with the existing roster composition. He chooses speed over size, and many of the departing players were recruited for Hugh Freeze's RPO scheme, which differs significantly from Golesh's wide splits and tempo.

Expect the next two weeks to remain volatile as Auburn aggressively shops for offensive linemen and wide receivers to fit the new system.