Auburn University has appointed DJ Durkin as the interim head coach for its football program following the firing of Hugh Freeze. This decision comes after a disappointing 15-19 record over three seasons, ending with a loss to Kentucky on November 2, 2025.
DJ Durkin Takes the Helm
Durkin, previously Auburn’s defensive coordinator, steps into the role for the final three games of the regular season. His first challenge will be against #16 Vanderbilt at FirstBank Stadium, where Auburn hopes to reverse its fortunes amidst ongoing struggles on offense.
Challenges Ahead for Auburn
- Auburn’s recent offensive performance has raised concerns.
- The team managed only 241 yards against Kentucky, a notably weak defense.
- Issues at quarterback further complicate Durkin’s preparation.
If Durkin can secure a couple of wins, it may bolster his chances of being named the full-time head coach as Auburn searches for Freeze’s successor. He is poised to be Auburn’s third head coach since Gus Malzahn was dismissed in 2020.
Durkin’s Coaching Background
DJ Durkin’s coaching journey includes significant roles across various universities. Before arriving at Auburn, he coached at Texas A&M but has a controversial past from his tenure at the University of Maryland. He was placed on administrative leave in 2018 amidst an investigation prompted by the tragic death of a player, Jordan McNair, during practice.
Career Overview
Here’s a summary of Durkin’s coaching career:
| Year | Position | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2001-2002 | Graduate Assistant | Bowling Green |
| 2003-2004 | Graduate Assistant | Notre Dame |
| 2005-2006 | Special Teams Coordinator, Linebackers Coach | Bowling Green |
| 2007-2009 | Special Teams Coordinator, Defensive Ends Coach | Stanford |
| 2010-2014 | Defensive Coordinator, Special Teams Coordinator | Florida |
| 2014 | Interim Head Coach | Florida |
| 2015 | Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers Coach | Michigan |
| 2016-2018 | Head Coach | Maryland |
| 2019 | Consultant | Atlanta Falcons |
| 2020-2022 | Co-Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers Coach | Ole Miss |
| 2022-2023 | Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers Coach | Texas A&M |
| 2024-2025 | Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers Coach | Auburn |
| 2025 | Interim Head Coach | Auburn |
Durkin’s Coaching Record
Durkin’s head coaching record includes:
- 2014 (Florida): 1-0
- 2016 (Maryland): 6-7
- 2017 (Maryland): 4-8
As Auburn’s interim coach, DJ Durkin has the opportunity to reshape the team’s trajectory during a challenging period. Whether he will secure the head coach position permanently remains contingent upon his performance in the coming weeks.
