The Auburn Tigers football team has been busy adding new talent through both recruitment and the transfer portal. But in the world of college football, change is always happening. Recently, the team lost another player, as defensive back C.J. Johnson has opted to enter the transfer portal.
Who is C.J. Johnson?
C.J. Johnson, a 6-foot-2, 198-pound redshirt freshman from Katy, Texas, was beginning to look for a new home to continue his college football career. He hadn’t seen the field during his two seasons with the Tigers, raising questions about his fit with the program.
Coming into Auburn, Johnson was considered a three-star prospect and ranked as the No. 58 safety in the class of 2023, according to 247Sports. His senior year at Paetow High School was impressive, leading his team with 68 tackles.
Auburn’s Defensive Backfield Changes
Johnson is not alone in his decision. He becomes the third safety and the fourth defensive back from the Auburn roster to enter the transfer portal. Other notable departures include starting safety Caleb Wooden, reserve safety Laquan Robinson, and cornerback Antonio Kite, who was dismissed from the program back in October.
These changes highlight the current state of Auburn’s defense and put a spotlight on their needs moving forward.
New Faces for 2025
Amidst these departures, Auburn’s coaching staff isn’t standing still. They’ve already secured commitments from two promising safeties for the 2025 season: Anquon Fegans, the No. 3 safety in the country per ESPN, and Eric Winters, who is ranked No. 7 nationally by 247Sports. These recruits will be critical as Auburn seeks to rebuild its secondary.
What’s Next for Auburn?
Losing players to the transfer portal can be challenging for any team. Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze will need to navigate these changes carefully to maintain the effectiveness of the defense. The addition of new players creates opportunities for adjustments, and requires that coaches adapt their strategies accordingly.
Meanwhile, the Tigers find themselves ranked No. 4 nationally in the portal class this year, trailing programs like Texas Tech, LSU, and Ole Miss. Auburn fans will be eager to see how these transitions affect the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did C.J. Johnson enter the transfer portal?
C.J. Johnson didn’t see playing time in his two seasons at Auburn, leading to his decision to explore new opportunities elsewhere.
How does the transfer portal impact team rosters?
The transfer portal allows players to seek new programs if they feel their opportunities are limited, which can lead to significant changes in team makeup.
Who are the new defensive backs coming to Auburn?
Auburn has secured commitments from Anquon Fegans and Eric Winters, both highly-rated safeties set to join the team in 2025.
What does Auburn losing defensive backs mean for the team’s future?
The loss of several defensive backs places a spotlight on the team’s recruiting strategy and creates openings for newer talent.
Can players return after entering the transfer portal?
Yes, players may opt to return to their original program if they do not find a new school after entering the transfer portal.
