Russell Wilson endorses Austin Davis as Auburn offensive coordinator
New Auburn offensive coordinator Austin Davis received a big endorsement from Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson on Saturday. It makes sense, as Davis coached Wilson for the past three seasons in Seattle, but the NFL star’s message should assure Tigers fans of Davis’ ability.
“I think Austin is going to be a brilliant offensive coordinator and potential head coach one day,” Wilson said. “He has a passion for the game, number one. Number two, he’s got an understanding of the game as he’s played the position at the highest level in the NFL. And three, he’s an amazing teacher. He’s an amazing teacher of the game. He keeps it simple in terms of relaxing the quarterback’s mind. He’ll be an amazing coach at Auburn.”
Auburn announced Davis as its next offensive coordinator Saturday. He replaces Mike Bobo, who was let go after just one season with the Tigers.
Davis joined the Seahawks in 2019 as an assistant quarterbacks coach in 2019 before being promoted the following season. Before that, he spent seven seasons in the NFL as a backup quarterback, including to Wilson in 2017.
Davis started 10 of 16 career games in the NFL, while playing for St. Louis, Cleveland, Denver, Seattle and Tennessee. He completed 236 of 378 passes for 2,548 yards, with 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Davis played college football for Southern Miss from 2008 to 2011. He was a four-year starter, compiling a combined 10,892 yards and 108 total touchdowns. Those numbers still rank second all-time in Golden Eagles history, behind Nick Mullens and ahead of NFL legend Brett Favre.
He was also a baseball player in high school and was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 2012 MLB Draft in the 31st round. His brother, Bo, played for the San Diego Padres.
Davis is set to take over an Auburn offense that loses quarterback Bo Nix to the transfer portal. The Tigers finished 10th in the SEC in total offense, so it’s clear the new coordinator has his work cut out for him.
But with Russell Wilson on his side, Austin Davis should have all the confidence in the world.
Auburn went 6-6 in coach Bryan Harsin’s inaugural season, earning a trip to the Birmingham Bowl. They are set to face Houston at noon ET on Dec. 28 at Protective Stadium.