Auburn football continues to struggle, finishing the previous season with a disappointing 5-7 record, marking the second failure to qualify for a bowl game in three years. The team has been inconsistent, amassing an 11-14 record over the last two seasons and ranking poorly in offensive production. Quarterback Payton Thorne, a transfer from Michigan State, led the Tigers in 2023 and 2024 but faced criticism for his performance.

Despite a boost in his rating to a career-best 150.8, Thorne's stats—2,713 yards, 21 touchdowns, and nine interceptions—were overshadowed by a lackluster offensive showing. Following the 2025 NFL Draft, Thorne joined the Cincinnati Bengals as an unrestricted free agent. His transition to a formidable team led by Joe Burrow has left many Auburn fans skeptical, with some questioning the Bengals' decision to sign him.