Auburn is anticipated to add former Texas A&M defensive backs coach TJ Rushing to its staff in a “special assistant” role, as reported by Matt Zeni
Rushing has been part of Jimbo Fisher’s coaching staff at Texas A&M since 2020. Following Fisher’s departure in November, new head coach Mike Elko assembled a new coaching team. During his tenure at Texas A&M, Rushing collaborated with Auburn’s current defensive coordinator, D.J. Durkin, who served as Texas A&M’s defensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023. Together, they contributed to Texas A&M boasting the nation’s top pass defense in 2022, allowing only 156.2 passing yards per game.
However, Texas A&M’s defensive performance declined in 2023, allowing 207.4 passing yards per game, ranked 37th nationally, compared to Auburn’s 31st ranking in the same category. This decline played a significant role in the decision to part ways with Fisher.
While Rushing’s specific duties as a “special assistant” at Auburn have not been fully clarified, he is known for his strong recruiting prowess. According to 247Sports, Rushing played a primary or secondary recruiting role in securing commitments from five different top 100 recruits for Texas A&M, all recruited since 2022. He was also the primary recruiter for two five-star signees, including Terry Bussey, ranked as the No. 11 overall player in the 2024 class.
Auburn has also reinforced its coaching staff by rehiring Wesley McGriff as cornerbacks coach and appointing Charles Kelly, formerly the defensive coordinator at Colorado, as co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach.
About The Author
