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In three seasons with the Auburn Tigers, Alabama native Kerryon Johnson made himself into a program legend. But after some controversial comments on social media, some Auburn fans are trying to revoke that status.
Johnson, who is in his first year as the running backs coach at Eastern Tennessee State, took to X on Monday night to answer questions before his team’s season begins.
One of the questions asked Johnson if he was proud to be an Auburn Tigers, and the response probably wasn’t what Auburn fans were expecting.
— Kerryon Johnson (@CoachKerryon) July 28, 2025
Not only did Johnson refuse to speak glowingly of the Tigers, he didn’t even speak remotely positively, giving only an “Eh” in response to the question. When asked why his response was so muted, Johnson said only “Couple personal reasons.”
Auburn Fans Didn’t Love Kerryon Johnson’s Lack Of Pride For The Program
Johnson has plenty to be proud of regarding his own career on the plains. He rushed for 1,381 yards and 18 touchdowns as a junior in 2017, earning SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors along the way. In doing so, he helped the Tigers to a 10-4 record and a spot in the SEC Championship Game, although the Tigers lost that game to Georgia, 28-7, and eventually lost the Peach Bowl to UCF, 34-27.
While several Auburn fans expressed their support for Johnson and regret that he didn’t have more fond memories, others lashed out.
“Bro I legit have your lions jersey still and everything. I legit beat my chest for you???? What the heck my guy,” one fan replied.
“Trash response. I completely understand having gripes with the university or someone associated with the football program. But responding Eh to that in a fan Q&A is bulls—,” said another.
The Detroit Lions selected Johnson with the 43rd pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. However, he was out of the league by 2021, with repeated injuries playing a role. Some fans believe Johnson’s hard feelings are do to a heavy workload in his three years at Auburn, which may well have contributed to his short NFL career.
Others speculated about a potential falling out with former Tigers coach Gus Malzahn.
Johnson did, however, have some in his time at Auburn. When asked about his favorite off-field memory with the program, he replies simply: “Can’t even put it on Twitter big dog.”
Maybe one day he’ll tell that story, as well one explaining why he’s no longer prideful about the school.