Byrum Brown is in the upper-tier of SEC quarterbacks says USA TODAY
Auburn's new QB Byrum Brown is ahead of several notable names despite a disappointing A-Day performance.
Auburn football fans got their first look at new quarterback Byrum Brown during Saturday's A-Day game. Although Brown's stat line did not blow anyone away, head coach Alex Golesh feels that Brown has what it takes to succeed in the SEC. USA TODAY's Matt Hayes feels the same as Golesh, which can be seen in his latest SEC quarterbacks ranking released following Auburn's A-Day game.
Hayes places Brown at No. 6 in his rankings, behind notable names including Texas' Arch Manning, Georgia's Gunner Stockton, and Ole Miss ' Trinidad Chambliss. Hayes expects Brown's dual-threat abilities to become an issue for opposing defenses.
USF transfer will be a big problem for SEC defenses. Against Florida in Week 2 last year — when the Gators’ defense was healthy and nasty — Brown had 329 total yards (66 rush), and led a huge upset. But the USF offensive line in 2025 was light years ahead of the Auburn offensive line — which will have four new transfer starters in 2026.
The great news for Brown is that two of his offensive linemen at USF, Cole Best and Cole Skinner, transferred to Auburn with Brown. Brown is also surrounded by several other familiar wide receivers, including Keshaun Singleton, Christian Neptune, Chas Nimrod, and tight end Jonathan Echols. Having so many familiar teammates and coaches put Brown in the best-case scenario to thrive on the Plains.