In need of defensive backs with experience, Auburn landed the commitment of Jerrin Thompson — a safety transferring from Texas — on Monday according to a post on his Instagram.

Thompson, a Texas native, has played in double-digit games each of the last four years as a Longhorn. He has 176 career tackles and five interceptions along with a forced fumble.

Auburn’s Music City Bowl loss to Maryland showcased its need to add experience in the secondary. Nehemiah Pritchett, DJ James, Jaylin Simpson and Zion Puckett — all stalwart starters in Auburn’s secondary — are leaving for the NFL.

Of those four, only Puckett played in the bowl game. Auburn’s secondary behind those NFL-bound players is full of highly rated high school recruits, but with little-to-know collegiate play under their belts.

Thompson steps in as immediately Auburn’s most experienced defensive back. His addition puts less pressure on the youth to contribute so quickly.

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