If you watched any Auburn football game during the final six weeks of the season, you know where the Tigers’ problem area lies.

The defense suffered through a program-worst six-week stretch in which it allowed more than 30 points and 400 yards of offense per game, which resulted in the firing of second-year defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson.

The search to replace Johnson is ongoing, however the Tigers need talent and depth on the defensive side of the football. Auburn was unable to generate a pass rush, leaving its secondary susceptible to big plays.

The current class boasts several promising defensive players, though Malzahn needs to add more parts.

The Tigers need help along the front seven, with the loss of Gabe Wright and the inconsistent rotation at linebacker.

Current front seven commits

  • Four-star LB — Darrell Williams, 6-3, 226 (Hoover, Ala.)
  • Four-stat LB — Richard McBryde, 6-2, 210 (Troy, Ala.)
  • Three-star LB — Montavious Atkinson, 6-1, 200 (Fairburn, Ga.)
  • Three-star LB — Elijah Sullivan, 6-1, 215 (Tucker, Ga.)
  • Three-star DT — Jauntavious Johnson, 6-1, 200 (Lincoln, Ala.)

Other positions of need

  • Secondary — The Tigers were suspect against the pass and lose the likes of Jonathon Mincy, Jermaine Whitehead and Robenson Therezie. Auburn’s current 2015 class boasts a few nice safety and cornerback prospects.
  • Running back — Seniors Cameron Artis-Payne and Corey Grant both depart, and Roc Thomas and Peyton Barber didn’t see a lot of playing time in 2014. The Tigers have the top JUCO prospect coming in running back Jovon Robinson.