Kobe Hudson's departure adds to an already huge challenge for Auburn's offense

The Tigers' No. 1 receiver from the 2021 season is leaving in less-than-ideal circumstances. Add that to the rebuilding project.

WR Kobe Hudson (Jacob Taylor/Auburn Athletics)

And Auburn football was on such a solid run of positive news.

One week ago, the Tigers dropped the Birmingham Bowl to Houston, ensuring their worst record since the abysmal 2012 campaign that was the lowest point in the program’s modern history. Year 1 of the Bryan Harsin era wasn’t all bad, but the overall final product — particularly on offense — was a step backward.

While it wouldn’t erase anything on the win-loss record, the next stretch of decisions from draft-eligible players was great for the program.

Star defensive tackle Colby Wooden was first to announce his decision to stay, followed by second-team All-SEC edge rusher and team sack leader Derick Hall. Record-breaking tight end John Samuel Shenker announced he would come back for a sixth season, and team captain Owen Pappoe said he would remain at Auburn after an injury-filled junior season.

Then came the Instagram post Tuesday night from wide receiver Kobe Hudson. The caption reads…