PFF’s latest quarterback rankings
Pro Football Focus College recently published its grades for all returning SEC quarterbacks who are slated to compete in the 2026‑27 season. The analytics-driven rankings, which blend passing efficiency, rushing production and overall impact, placed Auburn’s Byrum Brown at the top with a score of 91.5, the highest mark among the conference’s signal‑callers.
Brown arrives in Auburn after a standout two‑year run at South Florida, where he combined a potent arm with a rare ability to extend plays with his legs. In 2025 he threw for 3,158 yards while adding 1,008 rushing yards, a dual‑threat combination that helped the Bulls generate 42 total touchdowns — 28 through the air and 14 on the ground.
A seasoned transfer with SEC exposure
Although this will be Brown’s first year in the SEC, he is no stranger to strong defensive schemes. He logged extensive snaps against SEC‑style defenses while at USF, gaining valuable experience that should accelerate his adaptation to Auburn’s playbook. The coaching staff also notes that several of his former teammates have followed him to Auburn, bolstering the quarterback room with familiar chemistry.
The excitement surrounding Brown’s grade is not just statistical; it reflects expectations that his playmaking ability will translate into a potent offensive engine for the Tigers. Analysts predict that if he can replicate his 2025 production — and build on the momentum of a strong supporting cast that moved with him — Auburn could see a marked improvement in its scoring efficiency.
What the grade means for Auburn
A 91.5 rating places Brown ahead of established SEC quarterbacks, signaling that the Tigers have secured a quarterback who can compete at the top tier of the conference. The grading system rewards not only raw numbers but also consistency, decision‑making under pressure and the ability to elevate teammates, all qualities Brown demonstrated in Tampa.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Brown steps onto the Plains. If his transition mirrors his USF performance, Auburn’s offense could become one of the most dynamic units in the SEC, potentially reshaping the team’s outlook for the upcoming season.