Change is in the air at Auburn! With the arrival of a new head coach, Alex Golesh, the Tigers are undergoing a significant transformation, and the coaching staff is the first piece of the puzzle. Golesh, wasting no time, is swiftly assembling his team for the 2026 season. But what does this mean for the future of Auburn football? Let's dive in.
Immediately after his hiring, Golesh hit the ground running. He brought in Kodi Burns, an Auburn alum, as the associate head coach and receivers coach. This move set the tone for the rapid staff assembly. Golesh also finalized the hiring of at least three more assistants from USF, signaling a strategic approach to building his team.
In a major announcement, Golesh retained defensive coordinator DJ Durkin. This decision provides crucial continuity for the Tigers.
"Change is inevitable," Golesh stated, emphasizing the importance of adapting and building a program based on clear standards. He aims to bring in the right people quickly and immerse the players with the new staff.
Here's a breakdown of the key coaching staff members, as reported and confirmed by Auburn Undercover:
Latest (Dec. 2): Golesh retains Auburn defensive coordinator DJ Durkin.
OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR/QB COACH: JOEL GORDON
Gordon, with a history with Golesh from their time at Iowa State, served as USF's offensive coordinator, QB coach, and primary play caller. Golesh expects a high-level offense at Auburn, similar to what was seen at USF. He highlighted the collaborative nature of the offensive staff, with significant input from all coaches.
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DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR/LB COACH: DJ DURKIN
Durkin's retention was a key decision. Golesh's intention was always to keep Durkin. Durkin's unit was ranked No. 5 in the SEC in total defense last season.
Durkin's relevant experience: Maryland head coach, Auburn DC, Texas A&M DC, Ole Miss DC, Michigan DC, Florida DC
WR COACH: KODI BURNS
Burns, an Auburn alumnus and former player on the 2010 national title team, returns as the associate head coach and wide receivers coach. He previously coached at Auburn under Gus Malzahn and worked with Golesh at Tennessee and USF. Burns will inherit an Auburn receiving corps with a lot of talent, making his role crucial.
Burns' relevant experience: USF WRs, New Orleans Saints WRs, Tennessee WRs, Auburn WRs, Middle Tennessee WRs
OL COACH: TYLER HUDANICK
Hudanick, known as "Coach Hoodie," worked with Golesh at USF as the offensive line coach.
Hudanick's relevant experience: USF OL, Tennessee GA, UCF GA
CB COACH: DEMARCUS VAN DYKE
Van Dyke, a former NFL draft pick, joins the staff after coaching at FIU and USF. He is known as a rising recruiter.
Van Dyke's relevant experience: USF CB, FIU CB, Miami CB
STRENGTH COACH: GEORGE COURIDES
Courides has a history with Golesh, working with him at Iowa State and USF.
Courides' relevant experience: USF head strength coach, Iowa State assistant strength coach, New York Jets assistant strength coach
UNFILLED ASSISTANT SPOTS
- TE coach
- RB coach
- DL coach
- EDGE/OLB coach
- DB coach
- ST coordinator
ANALYSTS/OTHER COACHES
- Parker Ball (OL)
- Parker Carmichael (WR)
- Larry Scott (OLB/DL)
- Brad Wilson (LB)
PERSONNEL STAFFERS
- Andrew Warsaw (USF chief of staff)
- Alex Fagan (USF director of scouting)
- Harding Harper (USF director of recruiting)
- Ephi Levy (USF director of player personnel)
- Jeff Jones (USF director of player development)
But here's where it gets controversial... The retention of Durkin could be seen as a safe move, providing stability. However, some might argue that a completely new staff could bring a fresh perspective. What do you think? Does continuity outweigh the potential for a new direction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
