Auburn’s defense suffered a significant blow in the transfer portal Monday night, as starting linebacker Robert Woodyard Jr. officially announced his decision to continue his career with an SEC rival.
According to a report from On3, one of Auburn’s top defensive performers from the 2025 season is transferring to Missouri. On3’s Hayes Fawcett confirmed the move on social media, noting that Woodyard recorded 67 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and two sacks across 433 snaps, earning First Team All-SEC honors from Pro Football Focus.
Woodyard’s departure represents a major loss for the Tigers, particularly given his expanded role this past season. After spending three years as a rotational contributor, the 6-foot, 245-pound linebacker broke out as a full-time starter in 2025 and finished second on the team in total tackles.
Missouri continued an active day in the transfer portal with Woodyard’s commitment, marking its third addition of the day alongside former Oregon cornerback Jahlil Florence and Cincinnati wide receiver Caleb Goodie. Tigers head coach Eli Drinkwitz later reposted Fawcett’s announcement, signaling the program’s enthusiasm about the addition.
The timing of Woodyard’s arrival is notable as Missouri reshapes its defense for the 2026 season. With First Team All-SEC credentials and one year of eligibility remaining, he is expected to step into a prominent role.
Woodyard is also familiar with his new program. His best performance of the 2025 campaign came against Missouri in October, when he totaled 11 tackles and four tackles for loss during an overtime matchup at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
As a proven SEC contributor, Woodyard enters Columbia as a potential replacement for Josiah Trotter, who is expected to declare for the NFL Draft. For Auburn, the loss highlights the growing difficulty of retaining established starters in the modern transfer portal era and raises new questions about how the Tigers will reload defensively heading into next season.
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