New report shows how Auburn’s estimated roster budget compares to other programs
Key Points:
- College football roster payrolls are increasing annually, with some programs spending over $50 million on their rosters in 2026, according to a report by The Athletic.
- Auburn's 2026 roster is estimated to cost between $31 and $35 million, placing it in the upper half among Power Four programs, with Texas, Oregon, and Ohio State leading at $45-$55 million.
- All teams in the current AP top 10 have roster payrolls of at least $30 million, with nine spending $35 million or more; Georgia is the only top-10 team with a payroll estimated between $31 and $34 million.
- Boston College has the lowest estimated roster value at $8-$13 million, which is notably $4 million less than the next lowest team, highlighting a significant disparity in spending across programs.