Auburn football steps into the offseason with a mission – bounce back stronger after missing bowl season. While high school recruiting has been a bright spot, the real battleground for immediate success lies in the transfer portal. With the portal buzzing, head coach Hugh Freeze knows landing the right players could flip the script for the Tigers in 2024. After finishing 5-7, Auburn’s season fell flat, leaving fans hungry for a return to relevance. The clock is ticking, and Auburn can’t afford another year of “almost.
The good news? Auburn’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be elite, but the Tigers need more than future stars – they need proven talent ready to make an impact now. . Here are three potential transfer portal targets Auburn should pursue to strengthen the roster for the 2024-25 season:
1. **Walter Nolen – Defensive Lineman (Texas A&M)**
Why Auburn Needs Him:**
Nolen is a former 5-star recruit and one of the most dominant defensive linemen in the SEC. His blend of size, speed, and power makes him a nightmare for offensive lines. Auburn’s defensive front struggled with consistency this season, and adding Nolen would instantly elevate the pass rush and run defense.
*Impact:**
Nolen could anchor Auburn’s defensive line and become the disruptive force they need to compete with top-tier SEC offenses. His presence alone could transform Auburn’s defense into one of the most formidable in the conference.
2. Grayson McCall – Quarterback (Coastal Carolina)**
**Why Auburn Needs Him:**
Auburn’s quarterback play has been inconsistent, and McCall brings experience, leadership, and dynamic playmaking ability. As a dual-threat QB, he thrives in RPO (run-pass option) systems, making him a perfect fit for Hugh Freeze’s offensive schemes.
Impact:**
McCall’s ability to extend plays with his legs and throw with accuracy could provide Auburn the offensive spark they’ve been lacking. He could instantly elevate the Tigers’ passing attack and bring much-needed stability to the quarterback position.
3. Evan Stewart – Wide Receiver (Texas A&M)**
Why Auburn Needs Him:**
Auburn’s receiving corps has talent but lacks a true No. 1 threat. Stewart, a former 5-star recruit, is a playmaker with elite speed and route-running ability. He can stretch defenses vertically and create explosive plays—something Auburn’s offense desperately needs.
Impact:**
Stewart could give Auburn the deep threat they’ve been missing. Pairing him with emerging young talent could open up the offense, creating more opportunities for the passing and running game to thrive.
Why These Three?**
These players not only fill Auburn’s biggest needs but also bring proven SEC experience or elite production from other programs. Landing just one of them could be a game-changer—securing all three could set the stage for a dramatic turnaround in 2024.
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