Auburn's 2026 Transfer Portal Haul: The Key Additions Reshaping the Tigers in Year One of the Golesh Era

January 13, 2026 - AUBURN - Auburn entered the 2026 transfer portal window facing one of the most dramatic roster resets in program history. Nearly 30 players were expected to depart when the portal opened on January 2, including a wave of former blue‑chip recruits who once formed the backbone of Auburn's talent profile. For new head coach Alex Golesh, the challenge was immediate and unforgiving: rebuild a roster capable of competing in the SEC while stabilizing a program that had endured two coaching changes in three seasons.

But as the 15‑day window unfolded, Auburn's staff responded with urgency, clarity, and a clear identity. The Tigers aggressively targeted experience, versatility, and system fits - especially players familiar with Golesh's up‑tempo offensive philosophy. The result is a transfer class that may not grab national headlines but is quietly assembling the foundation for Auburn's next chapter.

Below are the most important additions who will shape Auburn's 2026 season.

Tristan Ti'a - Quarterback, Oregon State

One of the earliest and most important additions came at the most important position. Oregon State transfer Tristan Ti'a, a former four‑star recruit, committed to Auburn after appearing in three games as a true freshman in 2025. Ti'a brings four years of eligibility and a skillset that fits Golesh's offense: mobility, quick processing, and the ability to push the ball vertically.

While veteran Byrum Brown is expected to start in 2026, Ti'a represents Auburn's quarterback of the future. His lone start at Oregon State - a 240‑yard performance against Washington State despite heavy pressure - showed poise and upside. In a year defined by roster turnover, securing a long‑term quarterback was essential.

Bryson Washington - Running Back, Baylor

Auburn needed backfield reinforcements after losing multiple running backs to the portal, and Baylor transfer Bryson Washington answered the call, committing on January 10. Washington brings SEC‑caliber size and burst, and his downhill style complements the tempo‑based run game Golesh prefers.

Washington's addition also stabilizes a room that still includes returning standout Jeremiah Cobb. Expect Washington to compete immediately for carries and provide the physicality Auburn lost with Damari Alston's departure.

Jake Johnson - Tight End, North Carolina

One of the most intriguing additions is UNC tight end Jake Johnson, who signed with Auburn on January 10. Johnson, a former top‑100 recruit, gives Auburn a proven pass‑catching tight end with SEC experience and the versatility to line up in multiple spots.

Golesh's offense thrives when tight ends can stretch the field and create mismatches. Johnson's combination of size, athleticism, and route‑running makes him a natural fit, and he could quickly become one of Auburn's most reliable targets.

Shamar Arnoux - Cornerback, Florida State

Auburn's secondary took heavy hits in the portal, making the addition of Florida State cornerback Shamar Arnoux a major win. Arnoux signed with Auburn on January 12, bringing length, physicality, and experience in man coverage.

With multiple defensive backs departing, Arnoux projects as an immediate contributor - and potentially a starter. His ability to play press coverage aligns with the aggressive defensive identity Auburn hopes to build under Golesh's staff.

Andre Jordan Jr. - Cornerback, UCLA

Auburn doubled down at corner with UCLA transfer Andre Jordan Jr., who signed on January 10. Jordan is a fluid athlete with strong ball skills and experience against Pac‑12 passing attacks. His addition gives Auburn much‑needed depth and competition at a position that was gutted early in the portal cycle.

Together, Arnoux and Jordan represent one of the most important defensive rebuilds of the offseason.

Nate Johnson - Edge Rusher, Missouri

Pass rush was another priority, and Auburn addressed it with Missouri edge rusher Nate Johnson, who signed on January 10. Johnson brings SEC experience and the kind of twitchy explosiveness Auburn lacked after losing multiple defensive linemen to the portal.

Johnson's ability to win off the edge should help Auburn generate pressure without relying heavily on blitzing - a key need in a league dominated by elite quarterback play.

Joseph Simmons - Offensive Tackle, James Madison

Auburn's offensive line was one of the thinnest units on the roster entering January, but the Tigers made a significant addition with James Madison transfer Joseph Simmons, who signed on January 9. Simmons is a multi‑year starter with strong technique and the versatility to play multiple positions.

He joins a growing group of linemen who followed Golesh from South Florida, giving Auburn a blend of familiarity and experience up front.

Cole Skinner & Cole Best - Offensive Line, South Florida

Golesh's ties to USF paid off again when center Cole Best and offensive lineman Cole Skinner both signed with Auburn on January 12. Best was USF's starting center, while Skinner brings size and athleticism at tackle.

These additions are critical for an offense that relies on tempo and spacing - both of which demand depth and cohesion along the line.

Keshaun Singleton - Wide Receiver, South Florida

Auburn also added USF wide receiver Keshaun Singleton on January 9. Singleton is a reliable possession receiver who understands Golesh's system and can help stabilize a room that lost nearly its entire two‑deep.

His familiarity with the scheme should make him an early contributor.

The Big Picture

Auburn's 2026 transfer class isn't about splashy headlines - it's about rebuilding the spine of a roster that was gutted early in the cycle. Golesh and his staff focused on:

- Quarterback stability

- Offensive line depth and continuity

- Defensive back reinforcements

- System fits from USF

- Long‑term developmental pieces

In a year defined by transition, Auburn's portal additions give the Tigers a fighting chance to remain competitive in the SEC while laying the groundwork for a more stable future.