As the college football season approaches, anticipation is building across the country. For Auburn fans, this year brings an especially high level of excitement—and not just because of a fresh start or a new offensive wrinkle. The real buzz is surrounding the Tigers’ defense, which is shaping up to be one of the most dominant units in the nation. Anchoring that defense is a player who’s drawing attention from every corner of the football world: Keldric Faulk. The towering edge rusher is not only poised to lead Auburn’s defensive charge, but he’s also making a strong case as a potential top-10 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. With a unique blend of size, athleticism, and on-field production, Faulk is set to become a household name—if he isn’t already.

There are few things more valuable in college football than a defense that can control the pace of a game, dictate the line of scrimmage, and make quarterbacks uncomfortable. Auburn’s defense, with Faulk as its centerpiece, has all the ingredients to do just that. The team has steadily built a unit that’s not just talented but deep, experienced, and aggressive. It’s a group that plays with confidence, with a chip on its shoulder, and with something to prove every time they take the field. Under the guidance of a coaching staff that emphasizes physicality and discipline, the Tigers’ defense is entering the 2025 season with a reputation that may very well translate into results.

Keldric Faulk is at the heart of it all. Standing at six-foot-six and weighing over 260 pounds, he’s the kind of edge presence that offensive coordinators dread. His combination of length, power, and explosive first-step quickness allows him to consistently beat offensive tackles and get into the backfield. But what makes him stand out isn’t just his physical tools—it’s how he uses them. Faulk plays with a relentless motor, high football IQ, and a natural instinct for disrupting plays. Whether he’s chasing down a quarterback or stuffing a run behind the line, he makes his presence felt every single down. Scouts have taken notice, and with each performance, his NFL stock continues to climb.

Auburn’s defense isn’t a one-man show, of course. The Tigers have assembled a unit that thrives on teamwork, discipline, and intensity. The defensive line features multiple players capable of creating pressure, freeing Faulk to exploit matchups and take advantage of double teams being forced elsewhere. The linebacker corps is fast, smart, and versatile, able to play both sideline-to-sideline and in coverage. The secondary, with its mix of veteran experience and young talent, has the ability to clamp down on opposing receivers and take away the deep ball. All of these elements work in concert to make Auburn’s defense a nightmare for opposing offenses.

One of the most exciting aspects of this defense is how it is built to handle the modern game. Today’s offenses are faster and more dynamic than ever, often relying on spread formations, quick throws, and mobile quarterbacks. Auburn’s defense is uniquely suited to counter these trends. They’ve got speed at every level, the kind of depth that allows for multiple rotations without a drop-off in production, and most importantly, a player like Faulk who can wreck a gameplan with a single play. His versatility means he can rush the passer, drop into coverage, or line up inside if needed. That flexibility gives Auburn defensive coordinators a wealth of options—and gives offenses a lot to think about.

The expectations for Faulk have been high ever since he arrived at Auburn, but he’s done more than live up to the hype—he’s surpassed it. What separates him from so many other highly rated recruits is how quickly he’s adapted to the college game. In a conference as competitive as the SEC, it’s rare to see a player make such a significant impact so early in their career, but Faulk has proven to be the exception. His work ethic is unmatched, his commitment to film study and preparation has earned praise from coaches, and his leadership has become a quiet but powerful force in the locker room. He doesn’t need to be the loudest voice—his play speaks for itself.

What’s also impressive is how Faulk elevates the players around him. His presence on the field opens up opportunities for his teammates. Offensive lines have to account for him on every snap, often sliding protections or using a tight end to help block. That frees up one-on-one matchups for other pass rushers and gives linebackers a clearer path to the ball. It’s the kind of ripple effect that only elite players can create. And as a result, Auburn’s entire defense benefits—not just statistically, but in terms of confidence and swagger.

There’s a certain mentality that comes with knowing you have one of the best players in the country on your side. Auburn’s defense plays with that edge. They swarm to the ball, they bring energy on every snap, and they impose their will. That mindset, combined with the talent on the roster, creates a dangerous formula for any opponent on the schedule. And while there are always things to improve—better tackling, tighter coverage, cleaner execution—the foundation is strong, and the ceiling is incredibly high.

For Faulk, the spotlight is only getting brighter. NFL scouts are already making the trip to Auburn to watch him up close. Draft analysts have begun projecting him as a top-10 selection, and some even see him as a top-five talent depending on how the season unfolds. The NFL loves edge rushers who can consistently win one-on-one battles and collapse the pocket. They especially love it when those players also show maturity, intelligence, and leadership. Faulk checks every box. His combination of traits and intangibles makes him not just a future pro, but potentially a cornerstone for an NFL franchise.

But for now, Faulk’s focus is squarely on Auburn. He’s made it clear that he wants to win—win games, win championships, and leave a legacy. That drive is evident in how he practices, how he competes, and how he carries himself. He knows that individual accolades will come if the team succeeds. That kind of attitude resonates with coaches and teammates alike and serves as the foundation for what Auburn is building defensively.

The path won’t be easy. The SEC schedule is unforgiving, filled with powerhouse programs and elite quarterbacks who will test every aspect of Auburn’s defense. But there’s a growing belief—both inside and outside the program—that this unit is up to the challenge. With Faulk leading the charge, Auburn has a chance to be more than just good on defense. They have a chance to be great, maybe even special. And in a conference where championships are often won on the defensive side of the ball, that could make all the difference.

As the season draws near, all eyes will be on Jordan-Hare Stadium. Fans will pack the stands, hoping to see a defense that lives up to its billing. They’ll watch Faulk come off the edge with fury, disrupt plays, fire up the crowd, and lead his team with every ounce of effort he has. They’ll see a player who represents not just talent, but the future of Auburn football. And they’ll believe, because when a team has a defense like this—and a leader like Keldric Faulk—anything feels possible.

This season may prove to be a turning point for Auburn, not just in terms of wins and losses, but in how the program is perceived nationally. If the defense delivers on its promise and Faulk continues his ascension toward the top of the NFL Draft, the Tigers will once again be seen as a force to be reckoned with. It starts with one player, one defense, one opportunity—and right now, Auburn is seizing it.