Auburn will retain DJ Durkin as its defensive coordinator under newly hired head coach Alex Golesh, the university announced Tuesday. Durkin, who served as Auburn’s interim head coach following the November 2nd firing of Hugh Freeze, was a candidate for the permanent position.
Golesh stated retaining Durkin was “an easy call,” citing a relationship spanning over 20 years with the coach. “We are blessed to retain one of the top defensive minds in college football here on The Plains,” Golesh said in a statement. “He’s an elite leader, incredible father and husband and will be phenomenal leader on the defensive side of the ball. We have great respect for each other. Time to go to work.”
Durkin led Auburn to a 5-7 record in 2023, including a 27-20 loss to Alabama in the Iron Bowl. Prior to becoming interim head coach, Durkin served as Auburn’s defensive coordinator for the past two seasons. His previous coordinator experience includes positions at Texas A&M and Ole Miss, and he was head coach at Maryland from 2016-2018.
Auburn’s defense, under Durkin’s leadership, currently ranks 31st nationally in yards allowed and 32nd in points allowed.
“Coach Golesh and I have known each other long time and I’ve got a lot of respect for him, his teams and the way they work,” Durkin said in a statement. “I’m excited about what he’s going to bring to Auburn and grateful for the chance to work alongside him. I love this group of players, and it mattered to me to keep pushing forward with what they have already started.”
Golesh is also bringing members of his coaching staff from South Florida to Auburn, including offensive coordinator Joel Gordon, sources confirmed.
