Auburn Lands Veteran Tight End Transfer to Boost Passing Game

Jake Johnson brings experience and size to help revive the Tigers' tight end position.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:04pm

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Auburn has landed a key transfer in tight end Jake Johnson, who previously played at Texas A&M and North Carolina. At 6'6" and 240 lbs, Johnson is expected to provide a capable pass-catching threat and blocking presence to help bolster the Tigers' offense under new offensive coordinator Alex Golesh.

Why it matters

Auburn's tight end position has lacked consistent production since the departure of John Samuel Shenker, so the addition of the experienced Johnson could be a significant boost. Golesh has made upgrading the tight end room a priority, hiring respected position coach Larry Scott to help oversee the position's revival.

The details

In 2023, Johnson caught 24 passes for 235 yards and 4 touchdowns at Texas A&M. His size and skill set as both a receiver and blocker should allow him to be a versatile weapon in Golesh's offense, which is expected to feature the tight end more prominently than in recent years on the Plains.

  • Johnson played the 2023 season at Texas A&M.
  • He transferred to Auburn in 2024 to join the Tigers' program.

The players

Jake Johnson

A 6'6", 240 lb tight end who previously played at Texas A&M and North Carolina, and is now transferring to Auburn to bolster the Tigers' passing game.

John Samuel Shenker

The last tight end at Auburn to provide consistent production, with 413 yards on 33 receptions in his career.

Alex Golesh

Auburn's new offensive coordinator, who has made upgrading the tight end position a priority for the Tigers' offense.

Larry Scott

Auburn's new tight ends coach and associate head coach, who is a respected recruiter and position coach with prior experience at several of Golesh's past stops.

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What they’re saying

“Johnson's best season came in 2023, when he caught 24 passes for 235 yards and four touchdowns at Texas A&M. At 6-foot-6, 240 pounds, Johnson — the brother of former LSU, Texas A&M and North Carolina quarterback Max Johnson — has the size to be versatile in Auburn's offense at tight end.”

— Peter Rauterkus, AL.com Writer

What’s next

Johnson will look to immediately make an impact in Auburn's offense, as the Tigers aim to revive their tight end production under new coordinator Alex Golesh and position coach Larry Scott.

The takeaway

The addition of veteran tight end Jake Johnson represents a key transfer for Auburn as they seek to upgrade a position that has lacked consistent production in recent years. Johnson's size, skill set, and experience should make him a valuable asset in Golesh's offense as the Tigers look to return to prominence in the SEC.