Auburn has added a key piece to its roster with the transfer commitment of tight end Preston Howard from Maryland. Howard announced his decision Friday night during his visit to Auburn, marking the 13th addition for the Tigers in this transfer window and their second commitment of the day.
Hailing from Owings Mills, Maryland, Howard was originally a three-star recruit in Maryland’s 2022 signing class. Although he didn’t record any stats in his freshman season, Howard made notable strides in 2023. Appearing in nine games, he accumulated 155 receiving yards and scored his first career touchdown during the Music City Bowl against Auburn. His 2024 season saw him become Maryland’s sixth-leading receiver, posting 24 receptions for 189 yards.
Howard’s transfer strengthens Auburn’s offensive arsenal, making him the seventh offensive player to join the program during this transfer cycle. He joins an already impressive group that includes quarterbacks Jackson Arnold and Ashton Daniels, running back Durell Robinson, offensive linemen Xavier Chaplin and Mason Murphy, and wide receiver Horatio Fields.
On the defensive side, Auburn has also been active in the portal, bringing in several key players: defensive lineman Dallas Walker IV, cornerback Raion Strader, safety Taye Seymore, linebacker Xavier Atkins, as well as specialists Hudson Kaak and Connor Gibbs.
The addition of Howard bolsters Auburn’s depth at tight end and reflects the program’s commitment to enhancing its roster on both sides of the ball through the transfer portal.
