BREAKING NEWS: Auburn Tigers Confirm the Departure of Versatile Defensive Star Donovan “DK” Kaufman as He Begins NFL Career in a New Role
In a development that has stirred emotional reactions across the Auburn football community, Donovan “DK” Kaufman, a well-regarded and versatile defender for the Auburn Tigers, has officially moved on from the collegiate scene and embarked on his professional journey in the National Football League (NFL). After three impactful seasons in Auburn’s defensive unit, Kaufman has signed with the Seattle Seahawks—but not in the position fans would expect.
Kaufman, who played the bulk of his college career as a safety and nickel back, will be making a bold transition to the running back position as he enters the next chapter of his football career. His signing with Seattle was confirmed on Monday, marking a significant turning point in a journey that has taken him from the SEC’s hard-hitting defensive backfields to the offensive backfield of an NFL franchise.
Kaufman began his college career at Vanderbilt University, where he saw limited action due to the shortened 2020 season, appearing in just two games. However, his talent and potential quickly became evident. After transferring to Auburn, he became a key contributor, appearing in 32 games over three seasons and playing multiple roles in the secondary. Whether it was at safety, nickel, or on special teams, Kaufman earned praise for his speed, physicality, and football IQ.
Despite his versatility and strong performances in college, Kaufman faced an uphill battle in the 2024 NFL Draft and ultimately went undrafted. Still, his ambition and determination did not waver. After finishing his college eligibility with a final season at North Carolina State, where he continued to showcase his athleticism and defensive instincts, Kaufman shifted his focus to making it in the pros—this time by taking on a completely new position.
In May 2025, Kaufman received a tryout invitation from the Seattle Seahawks to participate in their rookie minicamp. While he did not immediately land a contract offer, he left a strong impression on the coaching staff and team evaluators. His agility, toughness, and competitive drive stood out, even in an unfamiliar offensive role. The Seahawks eventually decided to give him a shot, and this week, they made it official by signing him as an undrafted rookie free agent to play running back.
For Auburn fans, Kaufman’s departure is bittersweet. Known for his passion, leadership, and consistent effort on the field, he was considered one of the program’s hardest-working players. His commitment to the team, adaptability on defense, and willingness to contribute in any capacity made him a fan favorite and a respected figure within the locker room.
What makes Kaufman’s story even more remarkable is his willingness to reinvent himself to pursue his NFL dreams. Switching from defense to offense at the professional level is a rare and difficult move, but it underscores Kaufman’s athleticism and mental fortitude. It also highlights a growing trend in modern football, where players who exhibit elite athletic traits are given the opportunity to succeed in multiple roles, regardless of their college position.
As he prepares to compete for a roster spot with the Seahawks, Kaufman’s story will serve as an inspiration to undrafted players everywhere. He represents the type of athlete who refuses to let traditional boundaries define his journey, and he is now one step closer to realizing his dream of playing in the NFL—on his own terms.
While Auburn loses one of its most versatile defenders, the football world gains a fascinating new storyline: DK Kaufman, the defender turned running back, determined to make his mark at the next level. Fans from Auburn, Vanderbilt, and NC State will no doubt be watching closely, rooting for him to succeed in this unexpected yet thrilling new role.
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