Alex Golesh identifies leadership as a primary concern ahead of Baylor opener

Auburn head coach Alex Golesh expressed uncertainty regarding team leadership as the Tigers prepare for their Week 1 matchup against Baylor. While acknowledging individual players such as Byrum Brown, Cole Best, and Jeremiah Cobb for their efforts in the offseason, Golesh stated that he remains concerned about how the squad will respond to game-day adversity. As a result of these concerns, the coaching staff will not appoint permanent team captains for the 2026 season. Instead, Auburn plans to designate captains on a weekly basis to better evaluate performance and leadership traits under pressure. Golesh noted that traits like accountability are difficult to assess until the team faces challenging moments during live competition. The upcoming game against Baylor will serve as an initial opportunity for players to step into these roles when the team encounters setbacks like turnovers or deficits.

• 2:39 AMYahoo Sports — Alex Golesh Reveals the Auburn Concern That Still Makes Him 'Lose Sleep'