Auburn's fifth-year senior Chris Murray has emerged as a significant contributor to the team's defense, particularly after outside linebacker JJ Faulk sustained a shoulder injury during preseason camp. With the season opener against Baylor set for September 5, Murray is making a strong case for considerable playing time alongside candidates Da'Shawn Womack and Jared Smith.
Auburn head coach Alex Golesh expressed enthusiasm for Murray's performance, noting that he has returned to full health after missing the first week and a half of camp. Golesh highlighted Murray's maturity and steady presence, stating, "He's been phenomenal here the last week," and emphasized the importance of the upcoming days for Murray's chances of securing a starting position.
Murray's football journey began at TCU in 2021, where he played for two seasons before transferring to Sam Houston State for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He joined Auburn prior to the 2025 campaign, where he recorded 15 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 3.5 tackles for loss.
In March, the NCAA granted him a waiver for a sixth year of eligibility, allowing him to join the Tigers late in the spring practice period.
After practice, Murray reflected on his experience, stating, "I think the biggest blessing for me is that I'm an older guy. I'm a little more experienced with certain things," and emphasized his role in mentoring younger teammates. He is particularly focused on helping players like Jared Smith, with whom he has trained previously.
