Chris Murray, a fifth-year senior linebacker at Auburn, is stepping up as a vital player following teammate JJ Faulk's preseason injury. The season opener against Baylor is set for September 5, and Murray is advocating for considerable playing time, competing with Da'Shawn Womack and Jared Smith.
Auburn's coach Alex Golesh expressed excitement about Murray's recent performance, highlighting his impressive recovery after missing the first part of camp due to injury. Golesh remarked on Murray's competitiveness, stating that the upcoming days are crucial for him.
Murray's football career started at TCU in 2021, where he played for two seasons. He later transferred to Sam Houston State for the 2023 and 2024 seasons before joining Auburn prior to the 2025 season. In his first year with the Tigers, he recorded a total of 15 tackles, alongside 3.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss.
In March, the NCAA approved a waiver that granted him a sixth year of eligibility, enabling him to join the team late in the spring practice.
Reflecting on his journey, Murray noted that his age and experience allow him to guide younger teammates. As Auburn prepares for its upcoming scrimmage, the team is working to finalize its lineup for the game against Baylor.
