Auburn OT Avery Young set to depart for 2016 NFL Draft

Published Jan. 13, 2016 8:49 p.m. ET

foxsports

Auburn junior offensive lineman Avery Young has announced he will skip his senior season in order to enter the 2016 NFL Draft.

Just spoke to #Auburn OT @AveryYoung56. He tells me he's submitting his name for entry into the 2016 NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/8yot4rNC9J
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) January 13, 2016

A three-year starter, the 6'6", 305-pound Florida native was a stalwart along Auburn's offensive line for head coach Gus Malzahn. He initially began his career as a guard -- before transitioning out to the tackle position.

The loss of Young is significant for Auburn. Shon Coleman -- the team's other starting tackle in 2015 -- also decided to enter the draft. It will be a incumbent upon Malzahn to try and find a suitable solution to the situation.

A stud tackle in high school, it wouldn't be a complete shock to see all-conference guard Braden Smith kick outside to tackle. Other potential options include Mike Horton, Robert Leff, and Darius James.