Auburn’s Transfer Haul Highlights QB Byrum Brown and Edge Rusher Da’Shawn Womack as 2026 Impact Players

TL;DR: CBS Sports places Auburn quarterback transfer Byrum Brown at #11 and edge rusher Da’Shawn Womack at #20 among the most important college‑football transfers for 2026, signaling a potential shift in the Tigers’ competitive balance.

Auburn’s 2026 roster now features two of the portal’s highest‑rated arrivals. Head coach Alex Golesh added 39 players this offseason, but the spotlight falls on former USF quarterback Byrum Brown and former Ole Miss edge rusher Da’Shawn Womack, both ranked by CBS Sports as top‑impact transfers.

Brown entered the transfer portal after a senior season that produced more than 4,000 total yards, over 1,000 of them on the ground, and 40+ touchdowns. His dual‑threat skill set earned him the 11th‑most‑important transfer slot, the highest placement for an Auburn newcomer this cycle. The former South Florida quarterback follows coach Kerwin Bell to the Plains, bringing a proven ability to extend plays with his legs and arm.

Womack, a junior who redshirted at LSU before a sophomore year at Ole Miss, logged 27 tackles (14 solo), two sacks and a forced fumble in 2025. CBS placed him at #20 among transfers, highlighting his potential as a four‑star edge rusher despite limited collegiate starts. Auburn hopes he can fill the void left by departing defensive end Keldric Faulk.

The Tigers’ offensive woes in recent seasons make Brown’s transition to SEC defenses a critical test. While his spring game showed flashes, the SEC’s faster, more physical defenders will demand rapid adaptation. Success could elevate Auburn’s passing attack and relieve pressure on the offensive line.

Defensively, Womack’s addition could boost pass‑rush productivity. Even with a solid unit under coordinator DJ Durkin, an extra edge threat can increase sack totals and disrupt opponent game plans, potentially raising Womack’s NFL draft stock.

Both players arrive amid a broader Auburn strategy to rebuild through the portal. Their rankings suggest the Tigers have secured two of the most impactful pieces available, but on‑field performance will determine whether the hype translates into wins.

What to watch next: Auburn’s season‑opening games will reveal how quickly Brown adapts to SEC speed and whether Womack can become a consistent sack producer. Their early impact will shape the Tigers’ trajectory toward a competitive 2026 campaign.