The NCAA's new 'five-for-five' rule has simplified the eligibility conundrum in college sports, grandfathering current players into the new system. This rule means all players now have five years of eligibility from the start of their college careers (or after they turn 19, whichever comes first), and redshirts are a thing of the past. This change has significant implications for Auburn's roster, particularly for players who began their college careers in 2023 and would have otherwise been unable to return for 2027 without a redshirt. Here's a breakdown of some key players who stand to benefit from this rule:
Jeremiah Cobb
Jeremiah Cobb, an RB, has already made a significant impact at Auburn, rushing for 1,283 yards in his first two seasons. With the new rule, Cobb could potentially extend his career at Auburn, making a significant move in the program's record books. Only six players in Auburn history have rushed for 3,000 or more yards, so Cobb's potential to reach this milestone is a compelling prospect.
Da'Shawn Womack
Da'Shawn Womack, a DE, began his college career at LSU in 2023 and has since transferred to Auburn. With the new rule, Auburn could have real continuity at the end and edge rusher spots in 2027, considering the youth of players like Jared Smith and the potential for young talent to step up. Womack's SEC experience and early success make him a key player in this scenario.
Nate Johnson
Nate Johnson, a DE, transferred to Missouri after a strong two-year run with the Mountaineers. His transfer to Auburn fills a gap in the defensive end room and provides continuity for the team in 2027. Johnson's impressive performance as a true freshman at App State, where he led the team in tackles for loss and sacks, makes him a valuable asset for Auburn's defense.
Jacoby Mathews
Jacoby Mathews, a S, began his career at Texas A&M in 2022, so his five-year clock is up after this coming season. However, the NCAA's evaluation of his gap year in 2023 and his redshirt in 2024 will determine if his clock pauses. Mathews' status as a 5-star prospect before his transfer adds another layer of complexity to this situation.
Hudson Kaak
Hudson Kaak, a punter, hit the ground running as a 21-year-old freshman at Oklahoma State in 2023. His consistent presence in every game since his college career began means he'll get more mileage out of a fifth year. Kaak's early success and role in the team's performance make him a valuable player to retain.
Connor Gibbs
Connor Gibbs, a kicker, handled kickoffs as a freshman at Southern Miss and will benefit from the new rule at Auburn. His role in the team's special teams and the potential for him to handle kickoffs for the Tigers in 2027 make him a key player to watch.
Andre Jordan Jr. and Cole Skinner
Andre Jordan Jr. and Cole Skinner, both CB and OG, respectively, played in five games as true freshmen but crossed the four-game redshirt threshold with a bowl game. They technically redshirted and would have another year of eligibility in 2027, making them valuable retentions for Auburn, especially with the loss of starting cornerbacks to the transfer portal.
