In a surprising turn of events, Zac Etheridge, the defensive backs coach and former player for Auburn University, has tendered his resignation, as confirmed through a social media post and subsequent press release from Auburn University. The announcement has left fans and analysts speculating on the future of Auburn's secondary.

Reports from 247Sports indicate that Etheridge will be joining the Houston football staff, returning to a coaching position he held in 2019 and 2020. Houston is expected to officially announce the hiring of the former Auburn star, who was reportedly also a finalist for the head coaching job at Louisiana-Monroe, which ultimately went to Bryant Vincent.

Etheridge, who played for Auburn from 2007-2010 and was a vital team captain during Auburn's 2010 national championship season, rejoined the program as the safeties coach in 2021. Despite the coaching transition from Bryan Harsin to current head coach Hugh Freeze, Etheridge remained on staff for just one year under Freeze before his resignation.

This recent departure follows the resignation of running backs coach and interim head coach Cadillac Williams. With both Williams and Etheridge no longer part of the coaching staff, it marks a complete overhaul from the previous regime led by Bryan Harsin.

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Auburn's secondary faces a significant challenge with the departure of four key starters to the NFL. Safeties Jaylin Simpson and Zion Puckett, along with cornerbacks Nehemiah Pritchett and DJ James, have all decided to pursue their professional careers. However, there is one glimmer of stability as cornerback Keionte Scott, initially reported to be entering the transfer portal, has withdrawn his name and will be returning to Auburn.

The void in coaching for Auburn's young and inexperienced secondary remains uncertain. It is unknown who will step into the crucial position, as the university is yet to announce any replacements. Speculation surrounds the potential hiring of former Colorado defensive coordinator Charles Kelly, who has a strong background in coaching defensive backs.

As Auburn undergoes a period of transition and rebuilding, all eyes are on the football program and its coaching staff. The decisions made in the coming months will undoubtedly shape the future of Auburn's defense on the field.