Auburn football: This transfer running back is now on the Tigers’ radar

The Auburn football program is recruiting hard in the transfer portal this month before the 45-day window closes until after spring practice. New head coach Hugh Freeze and his staff are looking for transfers to come in and make an immediate impact for the Tigers in 2023.

A couple of weeks ago, running back recruitment was focused on former Mississippi State Bulldog Dillon Johnson, who entered the transfer portal after three seasons in Starkville. However, even after a visit to the Plains, Johnson ultimately committed to Washington, putting the Tigers back at square one.

A new target has emerged now, and Auburn football coaches have turned their attention to former USF running back Brian Battie, who entered the portal just a few days ago.

The Florida native officially visited the Plains this weekend, and got a tour of campus and the new facilities as well as time to meet with Hugh Freeze, offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery, and Cadillac Williams, per Auburn Live.

The running back spent three seasons at USF, racking up 1,842 yards and 10 touchdowns on 280 carries in addition to catching 25 passes for 193 yards. Battie also contributed on special teams, returning 60 kickoffs for 1,427 yards and three touchdowns. He will have two years of eligibility at his next program.

Battie also has offers from Utah and Colorado, and he plans to visit the Buffaloes this Friday before making a final decision on January 15. Adding Battie would be a huge deal for the Tigers, because although Jarquez Hunter is poised to have his best season yet, it would be ideal to have another experienced back to pair alongside him while Damari Alston and incoming freshman Jeremiah Cobb continue to prove themselves on the field.