We’re taking a look at each position group as Auburn prepares to open spring practice on Feb. 27. The seventh of an 11-part series looks at the Jack linebacker.

Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze and defensive coordinator Ron Roberts will run defense with a base look of three down defensive linemen with a fourth player on the line of scrimmage in a hybrid position known as a Jack linebacker.

Derick Hall and Eku Leota, who are leaving the program for the 2023 NFL Draft, played a similar position at EDGE last season. A Jack linebacker’s primary function is rushing the passer; however, there will also be responsibilities in pass coverage.

Roberts wants the position to become an advantage. He’s used it in his defenses at Baylor for three years and succeeded. He’s hoping the recreate the success at Auburn.

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Elijah McAllister is a transfer from Vanderbilt. He racked up 65 career tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, an interception, and a touchdown during five seasons. He started in 12 games and played in 35. He’s listed as a Jack on the Auburn website.

Hayden Brice and Dylan Brooks are returning players in the Jack category. Brice and Brooks are talented athletes, and the Tigers need them to step up as the team seeks to replace Hall and Leota.

Projected Depth Chart: Starter: Elijah McAllister or Dylan Brooks

Hayden Brice

Brenton Williams or Keldric Faulk

Departed: Derick Hall and Eku Leota

Due to arrive in the fall: Brenton Williams and Keldric Faulk

Outlook: How this position will look depends on how Brooks and Brice develop. Auburn is losing a lot of defensive production with the departures of Hall and Leota. Auburn struggled to create negative plays last season, which has to improve. The Tigers will likely attempt to find players in the portal when the window opens after spring football.

Up Next: Linebackers