Auburn University confirmed on Tuesday that redshirt freshman wide receiver Duke Smith is no longer listed on the Tigers' official roster. The decision follows a violation of team rules, and the school's spokesperson said the player will not return for the upcoming season.
Smith becomes the second player to leave the program this offseason, after safety Jack Luttrell announced a medical retirement earlier this month. Luttrell, a key contributor in the secondary, cited health concerns that forced him to step away from the game.
Roster turbulence ahead of the 2026 campaign
The departures come amid a wave of roster turnover that also includes the return of Erick Smith and his brother Duke, who were among four receivers retained from the previous year's squad. Their presence was seen as a stabilizing factor for the offense.
Adding to the changes, new head coach Alex Golesh will oversee his first season with the Tigers. Golesh, previously the offensive coordinator at the University of Utah, was hired to replace the departed staff and bring a fresh scheme to the field.
The Tigers are slated to open the 2026 campaign on September 5 in Atlanta, where they will face Baylor University in a neutral‑site matchup. The game will be held at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, a venue that has hosted several high‑profile college football events.
Coach Golesh emphasized that the team is focused on integrating younger talent while maintaining continuity on defense. He noted that the early departures will allow the coaching staff to evaluate prospects in practice and shape a depth chart that can compete from the outset.