Auburn Linebacker Demarcus Riddick Out for Season With Shoulder Injury
Auburn will finish the final two games of the 2025 season without one of its key young defenders.
Sophomore linebacker Demarcus Riddick is expected to miss the remainder of the year after undergoing a shoulder procedure, according to a report Tuesday from Nathan King of Auburn Undercover. Riddick was spotted at practice in street clothes with his left arm in a sling.
Riddick has been dealing with shoulder issues since the spring, and King reports that he recently had surgery on his left labrum. His right labrum will also need the same operation down the road.
After a standout freshman season in 2024, the former four-star recruit hasn’t had the same impact this year. Riddick posted 27 tackles, three sacks, and a pass breakup as a freshman. Through 10 games in 2025, he has totaled just 13 tackles and one sack.
Despite his dip in production, Auburn’s linebacker room has taken a major step forward thanks to LSU transfer Xavier Atkins, who has become one of the nation’s top linebackers. Atkins has racked up 73 tackles, 7.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception he nearly returned for a touchdown against Texas A&M.
With Riddick sidelined, defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin will rely on Atkins, Robert Woodyard Jr., and freshman Elijah Melendez to maintain the unit’s strong play. While the rotation won’t change dramatically, any loss in depth is worth monitoring as Auburn closes out the season.
No Comment! Be the first one.