Allen Greene resigned from his role as Auburn’s athletic director just eight days before the season-opener against Mercer, which is set for Sept. 3.

He spent over four years in the role and the move surprised some, considering Greene could have remained with the Tigers until February of next year. Auburn head coach Bryan Harsin had nothing but respect and praise for Greene is the midst of his departure.

“Yeah, well, first thing for Allen — he’s very well accomplished to get to this point where he’s at,” Harsin said in a report from Nubyjas Wilborn of AL.com. “So I know that’s not easy, and certainly I think about him and his family. I’m very appreciative.”

Harsin also spoke highly of Greene’s way of operating and their relationship.

“I appreciate his process. I felt like through the interview process, he did a great job of asking the right questions, telling me things I needed to know, and making sure I had a heads up on certain things.” Harsin said. “Really, recruiting. That’s what it comes down to. You’re interviewing, but you’re also recruiting. I always thought that process was done very well.”

Auburn is set to take on Mercer at 6 p.m. CT on Saturday in Jordan-Hare Stadium.