Mathews entered the transfer portal in April 2024 and spent the last year in junior college focusing on his academics. Before leaving College Station, he logged 42 tackles, four pass deflections and an interception in 2023, playing for now Auburn defensive coordinator DJ Durkin.

Special teams are important, and having a valuable long snapper on your side is a key to success. Wakefield brings that to Auburn as a five-star rated long snapper by Kohl's kicking camps. His snaps are quick and accurate according to a scouting report by Kohl's, which is why he is the No. 7 long snapper of the 2026 class.