The Missouri Tigers football program has officially landed a significant addition to its roster with the commitment of Auburn starting left tackle Xavier Chaplin, who entered the transfer portal after the 2025 season. The addition of Chaplin strengthens Missouri’s offensive line and gives head coach Eliah Drinkwitz a proven, veteran presence as the Tigers prepare for the 2026 season.
Chaplin, a 6-foot-7, 350-pound offensive lineman, started all 12 games at left tackle for Auburn in 2025. Despite an inconsistent season with some early struggles in pass protection and false starts, Chaplin showed flashes of dominance in key games. Notably, he graded out at 97% in Auburn’s 23-17 matchup against Missouri, demonstrating the ability to perform at a high level against tough competition.
Before transferring to Auburn, Chaplin earned All-ACC honors at Virginia Tech, highlighting his status as one of the top offensive line prospects in the transfer portal. His combination of size, experience, and athleticism makes him an immediate upgrade for Missouri’s offensive front.
Coach Eliah Drinkwitz officially welcomed Chaplin to the program:
“We are thrilled to have Xavier join our Tigers family. He brings leadership, experience, and skill to our offensive line that will make an immediate impact. Xavier will not only strengthen our run and pass protection but also serve as a mentor for our younger players.”
With eligibility remaining, Chaplin is expected to start immediately for Missouri, bolstering a critical position on the offensive line. His addition enhances the Tigers’ ability to establish the run game and protect the quarterback, providing a key edge as Missouri competes in the highly competitive SEC.
The signing of Chaplin represents Missouri’s continued strategy of leveraging the transfer portal to add experienced, high-impact players who can contribute right away. Fans can expect Chaplin to play a pivotal role in the Tigers’ 2026 campaign, as the team looks to make a statement in the conference and on the national stage.
