Commodores Face Auburn With Key Defensive Absences
Vanderbilt Football released its initial player availability report Wednesday night ahead of its conference matchup against Auburn. The Commodores (3-0) will look to extend their undefeated start to 4-0 when they take the field for Saturday’s game.
The first player availability report confirmed several significant absences for Vanderbilt’s defense. Cornerback Jaylin Lackey, linebacker Jamison Curtis, defensive lineman Aaron Bryant, and defensive lineman Nikhil Jefferson are all listed as "Out" for the upcoming contest.
Head coach Clark Lea provided details on the nature of some of these injuries during previous announcements. Lea stated that Lackey and Curtis are dealing with soft tissue injuries and are considered "week-to-week." Regarding Bryant, Lea had previously announced that the defensive lineman will be out for the entire season due to an ACL injury.
Jefferson’s specific medical status was not detailed in the initial report beyond his "Out" designation. The loss of these four defensive players represents a notable depletion of depth for Vanderbilt as they prepare for their SEC opponent.
Spence Returns From Injury; Allen Listed as Probable
On the positive side for Vanderbilt, tight end Cole Spence is listed as "Questionable" for the game. Spence had missed the first three games of the 2026 season due to injury.
Lea praised Spence’s recovery process, noting that while nine out of ten people with his specific type of injury are typically out for the season, Spence has taken care of his body properly to return to the roster. EDGE Brian Allen Jr. is listed as "Probable" for the matchup.
Vanderbilt kicks off conference play this weekend hoping to maintain its unbeaten record. The team has navigated a start that coach Lea and others have described as not being the prettiest or most desirable, but the Commodores remain undefeated entering the Auburn game.