Buster Embracing Process as Auburn's New Left Tackle

Sophomore lineman Tai Buster has emerged as a standout on the Tigers' offensive line this spring.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:50pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting an offensive lineman in pass protection, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in shades of red, blue, and gold representing the physicality and technical complexity of the position.Buster's dedication to improving his technique and physicality has made him a standout on Auburn's revamped offensive line.Auburn Today

Tai Buster, a sophomore offensive lineman at Auburn University, has been one of the standouts on the Tigers' offensive line this spring as the team transitions to a new coaching staff and offensive system. Despite not having the typical size for a college tackle, Buster's long arms, quick feet, and dedication to the process have allowed him to earn a spot as the first-team left tackle.

Why it matters

Auburn's offensive line was hit hard by departures after last season, so Buster's emergence as a potential building block up front is crucial as the Tigers look to rebuild their offense under new coordinator Alex Golesh. Buster's ability to adapt and improve quickly will be key to the unit's success.

The details

Buster said it's been a process of growth and maturation, noting that when he first arrived on campus he struggled to even put hands on defensive lineman Keyron Crawford, who was moving at a different speed. But through daily work and trust in the process, Buster has been able to improve and earn a starting spot. He's now focused on continuing to compete and learn the new offensive system alongside his teammates.

  • Buster is heading into his second year with the Tigers.

The players

Tai Buster

A sophomore offensive lineman at Auburn University who has emerged as a standout on the Tigers' offensive line this spring.

Keyron Crawford

An Auburn defensive lineman who Buster initially struggled to block when he first arrived on campus, but has since been able to handle better through continued development.

Alex Golesh

The new offensive coordinator at Auburn, who is implementing a new offensive system that Buster and the rest of the Tigers' offensive line are working to learn.

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What they’re saying

“It's all a process. You've got to take it one day at a time. When I came in I couldn't even put hands on Keyron (Crawford). He was moving at a different speed. Taking it day by day, eventually I could block him a little bit. It was just taking it day-by-day and trusting the process.”

— Tai Buster, Auburn Offensive Lineman

The takeaway

Buster's emergence as a potential standout on Auburn's offensive line is an encouraging sign for the Tigers as they look to rebuild their offense under a new coaching staff. His dedication to the process and ability to quickly adapt and improve will be crucial as Auburn navigates the transition.