Tai Buster Remained Sidelined for Auburn
The sophomore offensive lineman is expected to resume contact drills in two weeks following an injury.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Football
Auburn football coach Alex Golesh announced that sophomore offensive lineman Tai Buster is still two weeks away from returning to contact drills. Buster has been sidelined since the start of fall camp in August.
Why it matters
The return of the highly touted lineman is significant for Auburn as he works to reintegrate into the offensive line rotation. His recovery timeline provides clarity for the team coaching staff as they manage the depth of the offensive front.
Buster was a four-star recruit in the 2025 cycle and saw limited action as a freshman, recording 11 total snaps.
The players
Alex Golesh
Alex Golesh serves as the head coach for the Auburn football program.
Tai Buster
Tai Buster is a sophomore offensive lineman who joined the team as a four-star recruit in 2025.
The details
Buster began an on-field running progression last week to prepare for his eventual return to full practice participation. He is expected to work his way back into the team's offensive line rotation once he receives medical clearance for contact.
Timeline
Buster was sidelined at the start of fall camp in August 2026.
Buster began his on-field running progression the week of September 28, 2026.
Coach Golesh provided the current injury update on October 5, 2026.
Buster is estimated to be cleared for contact by October 19, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Buster's return is a key factor in the team's efforts to bolster depth on the offensive line for the remainder of the season. His eventual availability will impact the coaching staff's ability to rotate players and maintain performance consistency.
His return will determine the depth chart configuration for the offensive line in late-season matchups. Fantasy participants and analysts should monitor his status for potential roster impacts as he integrates into active team participation.
The takeaway
Maintaining physical health during the transition from the recruiting cycle to collegiate play is a recurring challenge for young athletes. Athletes often require graduated progression protocols to safely return to full contact participation after being sidelined.
What happens next
Buster is tentatively scheduled to be cleared for contact drills on October 19, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit Football.
