Fave 5 Returning Defenders for 2026 | Auburn Football Podcast

Host Ike Jones kicks off a new summer series by highlighting five returning Auburn defensive players he is most excited to see in the 2026 season. From "game-wrecking" forces on the interior defensive line to hard-hitting enforcers in the secondary, this episode breaks down the physical traits and PFF metrics that make these five Tigers the ones to watch as Auburn prepares for the upcoming campaign. The "Fave 5" Defensive Standouts: Jourdin Crawford (DL): A true sophomore nose tackle described as a "middle of the defensive line game-wrecking type of force." Jared Smith (EDGE): A 6'6" sophomore edge rusher noted for his "suddenness," athleticism, and high ceiling in the absence of veteran departures. Sylvester Smith (S): A physical, "big-hit enforcer" entering a crucial "money year" where he becomes NFL draft-eligible. Kaleb Harris (DB): A versatile defensive back looking for a "bounce-back year" after battling through injuries during his sophomore season. Xavier "Deebo" Atkins (LB): The orchestrator of the defense and a potential national breakout candidate with an elite 90.8 PFF pressure rating. Head over to www.thewarrapport.com for all the best Auburn Content Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @theauburnexpresstv   🔥 Sponsors of This Episode Ables, Iannone, Moore & Associates, Inc. (AIMA) Insight. Perspective. Results. When it comes to your money, trust matters. AIMA is a Registered Investment Advisor based in Savannah, Georgia, providing fiduciary, fee-only financial guidance tailored to your goals. No hidden agendas. No sales pitches. Just disciplined investment management designed to help your money work as hard as you do. 📞 Call 912-777-4128 🌐 Visit https://www.AIMAINC.com AIMA — Insight. Perspective. Results. The War Rapport has been compensated by Ables, Iannone, Moore & Associates, Inc. (“AIMA”) for promoting the firm’s investment advisory services. The War Rapport’s views are their own and are not necessarily those of AIMA. AIMA is an SEC-registered investment advisor located in Savannah, Georgia. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training, nor does it constitute an endorsement of the firm by any regulatory authority. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. For more information about AIMA, visit www.adviserinfo.sec.gov and search “Ables, Iannone, Moore & Associates.” Sky Tobacco & Vape 💨 4 Locations to Serve You 2911 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31909 1102 E 280 Bypass, Phenix City, AL 36867 3517 Victory Dr #10A, Columbus, GA 31903 3565 Macon Rd, Unit A, Columbus, GA 31907 Whether you’re on the Thruway, the Bypass, or just lost with bad directions — Sky Tobacco & Vape is right around the corner. They’ve got vapes, tobacco, and deals so good you’ll swear they misprinted the price tags. 💨 Sky Tobacco & Vape — Good vibes, great deals, zero judgment if you walk in wearing pajama pants. Vibe Vault | Life. Style. Consultant. 💈 Located at 3462 Crosswinds Rd, Suite I, Phenix City, AL 36869 If you’re in the Columbus–Phenix City area and need to get fresh for the weekend, Vibe Vault is your spot. They don’t just cut hair — they elevate your confidence. Vibe Vault: Life. Style. Consultant. Sets for Society 🎵 Tune In. Stand Out. At Sets for Society, they specialize in helping you understand your unique mindset and how to connect better with others — whether it’s your team, your business, or your creative community. Through custom personality assessments and group coaching, they help you unlock your strengths, understand how others think, and build chemistry that wins. We’ve taken their assessments at The War Rapport — and they nailed it. Visit setsforsociety.ai to take your first step toward thinking, leading, and collaborating at a higher level. Goldens’ Cast Iron 💪🔥 Work Out. Grill Out. Chill Out. From handcrafted cast iron weights to premium fire pits and kamados, Goldens’ Cast Iron helps you train hard and relax right. Use our exclusive War Rapport discounts: 🏋️ CODE: GETCHAWEIGHTUP — 15% off weights 🔥 CODE: TWR — $65 off fire pits and kamados Shop now at GoldensCastIron.com/WR SEC Power Rankings | Derrick Nix Offense | Nixoffense | SEC Football 2025 | Auburn Tigers Football | SEC defense | DJ Durkin Auburn | Jackson Arnold | Deuce Knight | Ashton Daniels | SEC Football | College Football | #auburnfootball #auburn #collegefootball #djdurkin #secfootball