Auburn is Isaiah Raikes’ second stop since leaving Texas A&M after the 2023 season, but his former Aggies teammates raved about him at SEC Media Days in Dallas on Thursday.
Raikes first transferred to USC before leaving the Trojans at the end of spring practice and landing at Auburn. He’s expected to contend for a starting job at defensive tackle with the Tigers this season, his final year of college eligibility.
“I love Raikes,” Texas A&M center Trey Zuhn said. “He is a great player, great guy. Sad to see him go. Auburn definitely got a good player there.”
A New Jersey native and a former 3-star recruit, Raikes spent the 2020-23 seasons at Texas A&M. He played in 42 games and started five with the Aggies, totaling 43 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.
Noted for his work ethic, Raikes was an Aggies team captain last season. During his career, he won the program’s “Mr. Dependable” award on special teams and at one time was named “Most Improved” player on the A&M defense.
“They’re going to get somebody that’s going to go every day,” defensive end Shemar Turner said of Auburn. “I love Raikes to death. Raikes is going to work his butt off every day, and Raikes is going to give his all every day. They can expect a guy that’s going to come out there and produce for them at a very high level consistently.”
Auburn opens the 2024 season at home Aug. 31 vs. Alabama A&M. The Tigers host Texas A&M Nov. 23.