DJ Durkin appointed as Auburn’s new defensive coordinator.

Auburn’s head football coach, Hugh Freeze, has filled the team’s vacant defensive coordinator position by hiring DJ Durkin. Durkin brings four seasons of SEC experience, having spent the last two seasons as the defensive coordinator at Texas A&M. Before that, he directed defense and linebackers at Ole Miss for two seasons and is recognized for building successful defensive units at Michigan and Florida, among other coaching stops.

In 2023, Durkin’s defense at Texas A&M ranked No. 3 in the SEC and No. 19 nationally in total defense (316.0). The unit led the conference in rushing defense (108.8), sacks (7.6), and first-down defense (214). The Aggies’ rankings for tackles for loss and sacks per game were fifth and seventh nationally, respectively. Under Durkin’s leadership, the defense also ranked third in the SEC and No. 18 nationally in third-down defense (.332). In his first season, the defense led the nation by allowing the fewest passing yards per game at 156.2.

Coach Freeze expressed confidence in Durkin’s abilities, stating, “DJ has been a successful defensive coordinator at multiple stops in the Southeastern Conference. I’ve always been impressed with his schemes and game plans, including the two times I have faced his teams in recent years. Texas A&M’s defense was fast, physical, and well-coached. We are excited to have DJ join our staff here at Auburn.”

Durkin, in response to the appointment, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join Coach Freeze’s staff and be a part of the Auburn Family. He acknowledged Auburn’s reputation for hard-nosed, physical defenses and pledged to work hard to continue that tradition and make Auburn proud. Durkin eagerly anticipates getting started in his new role.

In addition to his college coaching roles, Durkin spent one season in the NFL as a consultant for the Atlanta Falcons in 2018. Before his NFL stint, he served as the head coach at Maryland for the 2016 and 2017 seasons. During his first season at Maryland, Durkin effectively doubled the Terrapins’ win total and showcased strong recruiting prowess, securing consecutive top-30 signing classes for the first time in the program’s history.