By: Tyler Ward
Fairley was one of the most prominent defensive players in all of the NCAA last season.
The defensive stud came to Auburn in 2009 after transferring over from a junior college. After not getting much playing time, Fairley only managed to post 28 tackles in thirteen games played (two starts).
After being named the starter at defensive tackle, Fairley put up some big-time statistics. He posted 56 tackles, 12 sacks, and even one interception in 2010 and became the second Auburn player to win the Lombardi Award, which is annually given to the nation's top lineman/linebacker.
Random Fact: The first Tiger to win the Lombardi Award (Tracy Rocker) was Fairley's coach. It was also the first time the Lombardi Award was won by a player that had a previous winner as their coach.
With the Tigers going undefeated in the regular season, they advanced to the BCS Title Game against the Oregon Ducks. Auburn won the game, 22-19, as Fairley recorded five tackles (three for loss), one sack, and one forced fumble, successfully winning the Defensive Player of the Game Award.
The defensive tackle is projected as a top-five selection and has garnered interest from teams with top selections.
