Auburn sophomore defensive lineman Malik Blocton intends to enter the transfer portal when it opens Jan. 2, he announced on social media.
Blocton signed with Auburn in 2024. He earned playing time as a true freshman and continued to produce as a sophomore in 2025. Blocton had 34 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and two sacks in two seasons with Auburn.
WHAT IT MEANS FOR AUBURN
The Tigers are losing one of their foundational pieces along the defensive line. Originally from Pike Road, Ala., Blocton played in all 12 games this season. He started eight of them. However, his departure leaves Auburn with a loss at a premium position.
It also leaves Auburn without a veteran along the interior defensive line. Auburn returns sophomores Malik Autry and Darrion Smith, while bringing in true freshmen Tavian Branch and Corey Wells.
Alex Golesh and staff will need to supplement the loss through the portal themselves.
Departure impact: Major
GOLESH ON TRANSFER 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.”