Auburn star Keldric Faulk declares for NFL Draft

Auburn defensive end Keldric Faulk announced Saturday that he will declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, officially ending his standout career with the Tigers.

The Alabama native released a heartfelt message to Auburn fans, thanking his coaches, teammates and family while reflecting on what representing his home state university meant to him.

Faulk, a former blue-chip in-state signee, grew into one of Auburn’s most disruptive defenders over three seasons. He finished with 109 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks in his career.

In his announcement, Faulk expressed deep appreciation for defensive coordinator DJ Durkin and defensive line coaches Roc Bellantoni and Vontrell King-Williams for pushing him and helping elevate his game.

He also credited Auburn’s support staff and academic team for their role in his development, and he shared an emotional tribute to his mother and brother for their unwavering support.

“Everything about this journey started with faith, hard work, and home,” Faulk wrote. “With gratitude for where I’ve been and excitement for what’s ahead, I am declaring for the NFL Draft.”

Faulk projects as a first-round draft pick with maybe even high-first-round potential. Faulk is currently No. 16 overall on Mel Kiper’s draft Big Board.

FAULK’S FULL STATEMENT

“DEAR AUBURN FAMILY,

Everything about this journey started with faith, hard work, and home. Growing up in the state of Alabama, it meant everything to me to stay in-state and represent Auburn University. Playing this game in front of my family, my community, and the people who raised me is something I’ll always be proud of. There is nothing like “War Eagle Nation”! Hands down the best fans in college football.

I want to thank Coach Durk, Coach Roc, and Coach Vontrell for the belief, coaching, and accountability you gave me every day. You challenged me to raise my standard and helped shape me into the player and man I am today.

To the coaching and academic staff — thank you for the structure, support, and commitment to my growth on and off the field.

To my teammates — my brothers — thank you for the grind, the trust, and the memories we built together.

To my mother and my brother — thank you for the sacrifices, prayers, unwavering support, and belief from day one. Everything I do is with you in mind, and representing Auburn in front of you both has meant more than words can say.

With gratitude for where I’ve been and excitement for what’s ahead, I am declaring for the NFL Draft.

WAR EAGLE“