Auburn’s latest move in the transfer portal comes at a position of need up front.

Hugh Freeze and the Tigers officially signed former Virginia Tech offensive tackle Xavier Chaplin on Tuesday, giving the Tigers an experienced starter at offensive tackle. He comes to Auburn after spending three seasons with the Hokies.

Offensive line was a position of need for Auburn in the portal, looking to upgrade at tackle after losing Izavion Miller. Starting left tackle Dillon Wade announced his plans to return on Saturday, but Auburn initially wanted Wade to play guard before he was moved back outside to replace Percy Lewis, another tackle who is out of eligibility.

Having started the last two seasons at Virginia Tech, Chaplin has a chance to step into the starting lineup right away at Auburn. He finished the 2024 season with a 74.9 pass blocking grade, according to Pro Football Focus, a grade that would rank second among Auburn’s starting offensive line in 2024.

Peter Rauterkus covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him on X at @peter_rauterkus or email him at [email protected]m