December 8, 2024

Auburn star defensive back Keionte Scott plans to enter transfer portal, per report

In what could be the most significant loss Auburn’s defense could take in the transfer portal, defensive back Keionte Scott is expected to put his name in, according to a report from 247Sports Matt Zenitz.

Scott has been among the biggest vocal leaders on Auburn’s roster in two seasons since arriving from Snow College as a junior college transfer. He has gone on to be one of Auburn’s best defensive players and was set to be the only returning piece with any experience in Auburn’s secondary.

While Scott has not yet officially put his name in the portal, nor does his potential entry necessarily guarantee he will leave Auburn, Scott’s possible departure is nothing short of massive for Auburn’s plans heading into 2024.

Scott primarily played Auburn’s STAR position, a nickel cornerback. He was excellent in the role. He also emerged as a dynamic punt returner this season, averaging 14.8 yards per return and bringing a punt back for a touchdown against Arkansas.

Setting the standard: Auburn's Keionte Scott - Auburn University Athletics

Before Auburn’s bowl game, there was thought Scott could move on to the NFL, but instead, he posted a video on Dec. 11 announcing his return to Auburn for the 2024 season.

Scott has been among Auburn’s most public recruiters on X, formerly known as Twitter. After he posted his return video, he posted and talked openly about his plans to be a closer on the recruiting trail for Auburn.

He also said he had plans to be an outside cornerback for Auburn in 2024 after playing the inside role in 2023.

Scott only played in 10 games in 2023, missing three with a mid-season ankle injury. In 22 career games with Auburn, Scott had 97 total tackles, one interception and nine passes defended.

In the Music City Bowl, Scott and Zion Puckett — who was playing his final game with Auburn before entering the 2024 NFL Draft — anchored a secondary rife with inexperience around them.

Should Scott leave, that would mean Auburn’s defense would need to replace its entire secondary from the 2023 season: Scott, Puckett, Jaylin Simpson, Nehemiah Pritchett and DJ James.

Former Auburn secondary coach Wesley McGriff is reportedly joining new Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko’s staff for 2024.

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