Bryan Harsin is one step closer to finalizing his first Auburn coaching staff.

That’s because the Tigers just announced the hiring of the program’s new receivers coach, Cornelius Williams. Williams previously coached receivers (for six seasons) and served as the passing game coordinator (for the previous two seasons) at Troy.

Following Williams’ hire, Harsin has now filled nine of the 10 full-time spots on his first Auburn coaching staff.

“Cornelius is a great fit for the staff we are assembling,” Harsin said in a statement following the hire of Williams. “He’s a strong teacher of the game on the field and has been developing recruiting ties in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi during his time at Troy. As a Birmingham native, and his state of Alabama roots, he understands what Auburn football is all about and the type of player and high character individuals we want bring in and develop. I’m excited to see his energy and passion for the game guide our wide receiver room.”

During his time at Troy, Williams coached 14 players to All-Sun Belt honors. Williams is a Troy alum, where he played receiver. He caught 63 passes for 764 yards and seven touchdowns during his college career.

Williams has also coached receivers at UAB (2014), Jacksonville State (2013), North Alabama (2012) and Murray State (2011). He played his high school football at Hoover High School.

“I’m very thankful to Coach Harsin for the opportunity to join his staff at Auburn,” Williams shared following his hire at Auburn. “I’m humbled and very appreciative that he believes in me. I know what kind of culture that Coach Harsin wants to build at Auburn with his thought process, attention to detail and desire to work hard. I’ve worked with coaches like that in the past and I love that culture and approach. I’m hungry to get to work and continue to grow and develop under his leadership. Growing up in this state, I know Auburn is a special place and I can’t wait to be a part of it and get to work.”

Here is a look at Harsin’s Auburn staff following this news.

Auburn’s updated 2021 coaching staff

  • Mike Bobo – Offensive coordinator
  • Derek Mason – Defensive coordinator
  • Will Friend – Offensive line
  • Cornelius Williams – Receivers
  • Cadillac Williams – Running backs
  • Tracy Rocker – Defensive line
  • Jeff Schmedding – Inside linebackers, defensive run game coordinator
  • Brad Bedell – Tight ends
  • Zac Etheridge – Defensive backs