After a first-team All-SEC season as one of the best interior defensive lineman in the nation, Marcus Harris announced he will enter the NFL Draft with a social media post Tuesday night.

Harris transferred to Auburn from Kansas after the 2020 season and progressively improved as a three-year starter at Auburn leading to a breakout 2023 season. Harris led Auburn with seven sacks and 11 tackles for loss. His 40 tackles were by far the most among any Auburn defensive lineman.

Harris did have the ability to return in 2024 for one final college season, but chose to go professional now after such a productive year. His post did not address if he will sit out Auburn’s upcoming trip to the Music City Bowl where it will face Maryland on Dec. 30.

The defensive lineman was one of the key leaders on the Auburn defense under a new coaching staff. He was one of the biggest reasons for Auburn’s overall defensive turnaround this year — especially against the run which was expected to be a concern for Auburn this season.

Pro Football Focus graded Harris as a top-20 defensive lineman in the nation this season.

Losing Harris does leave Auburn with a thin defensive line as things stand going into next season. Justin Rogers will see a greatly increased role next season and reserves like Quientrail Jamison-Travis to step up and freshmen like Harris’ younger brother Malik Blocton to make an early impact. Auburn has also pursued interior defensive linemen in the transfer portal.

Matt Cohen covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him on X at @Matt_Cohen_ or email him at [email protected]