Auburn safety Zion Puckett announced his intention to enter the 2024 NFL Draft on Tuesday, Dec. 30, after playing in the Music City Bowl.
Puckett has been Auburn’s starting safety the past two seasons and has played in 33 games for the Tigers over the past three seasons.
2023 would have been his fifth year at Auburn, and thanks to a redshirt year and a year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Puckett had the option to return in 2024.
However, the loss of Puckett means Auburn will now have to replace all of its starting corners with Nehemiah Pritchett and DJ James.
Both are ineligible and headed to the NFL draft, as are Jaylin Simpson and each of the starting safeties.
Puckett now plans to forgo his remaining eligibility and enter the draft.Like Puckett, Simpson said he still plans to play in a bowl game despite his plans to play professionally.
Auburn’s scheme seems to work relatively well for the cornerbacks.
Defensive back Keyonte Scott has indicated he will move from the nickel position to outside cornerback, while sophomore Kaiin Lee played well in several starts on the outside as a true freshman.
Junior linebacker Donovan Kaufman could move into Scott’s former nickel position.
The security situation is even more suspect. Other than versatile second-year quarterback prospect Caleb Wooden, Auburn lacks clear-cut home run options.
“I think Caleb Wooden will be one of them when we’re done,” Puckett said.
“I think the same goes for Terrence Love. I think these two will be very good in supporting roles in this game and beyond.
I think he’d better stay behind us. “I think the leadership shown so far will be very helpful,” he said.
The Tigers currently have a commitment from junior college transfer Laquan Robinson from Holmes Community College, a top college safety prospect.
Auburn also remains a strong target for five-star safety and Florida State commit KJ Bolden.
Bolden plans to sign Wednesday as part of National Signing Day. Signing him would be a talent boost for a safety that has been sorely lacking in practice.
Matt Cohen covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him at @Matt_Cohen_ on X or email him at mcohen@al.com.
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