Auburn CB Jay Crawford intends to enter NCAA Transfer Portal

Auburn starting cornerback Jay Crawford intends to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal when it opens Jan. 2.

Crawford, who signed with Auburn in the 2024 class, started 18 games in his two-year career with Auburn. Originally from Lilburn, Ga., Crawford earned Freshman All-America honors in his first season, while solidifying himself as the Tigers’ starter as a sophomore.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR AUBURN

Auburn is losing one of its top defensive backs and starting cornerback. Crawford started 10 games this season for the Tigers, recording 15 tackles, four pass breakups and one interception.

Crawford easily becomes the biggest loss on the defensive side for Auburn this portal cycle. It leaves Kayin Lee and Rayshawn Pleasant as the top two corners on Auburn’s roster.

Departure impact: Major

GOLESH ON TRANFER PORTAL, ROSTER RETENTION

Auburn head coach Alex Golesh, who arrived on campus Nov. 30, spoke in his introductory press conference Dec. 1 on the transfer portal and roster retention.

“I think the one thing that doesn’t change is this: You have to be able to identify the immediate roster and figure out really, really quickly who fits,” Golesh said. “And by fits, I don’t mean offensively, defensively or special teams, but truly, who wants to be there. Who’s at least got a chance to buy into what you’re doing, understanding that when you come into a situation where the success wasn’t flowing, change has to be made.”

He also touched on the resources available to Auburn in order to recruit and retain talent.

“The investment that has been made from the administration to go and attack every single part of the recruiting is phenomenal,” said Golesh. “Nothing short of phenomenal. We’ve got every resource known to man right here to be able to go attract, recruit, retain and develop the best talent there is in the entire country.”