After not having a quarterback drafted in each of the last six drafts, Auburn’s signal caller in 2024 is reportedly set to sign as an undrafted free agent.

Payton Thorne signed with the Cincinnati Bengals Saturday evening, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

It comes after Thorne spent two seasons in Auburn after starting his career at Michigan State. He threw for 2,713 yards and 21 touchdowns in 2024, improving his production significantly from 2023. He was briefly benched after throwing four interceptions against Cal, but started 10 games last season.

At Michigan State, he started during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, helping lead the Spartans to the Peach Bowl in 2021. That was also his best season personally, throwing for 3,240 yards and 27 touchdowns.

 Outside of just Thorne’s departure, Auburn is replacing its entire quarterback room in 2025. The Tigers signed Jackson Arnold and Ashton Daniels out of the transfer portal, along with five-star freshman Deuce Knight.

Thorne joins a Bengals team led by starting quarterback Joe Burrow, but will have chance to battle for a backup or practice squad spot in Cincinnati.

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