After transferring from LSU to Auburn last offseason, few anticipated Xavier Atkins would blossom into a cornerstone player for the Tigers. Instead, by the end of the year, his All-SEC caliber production led many to believe he might test the transfer portal once again.
That speculation ended when Alex Golesh chose to retain D.J. Durkin as defensive coordinator, a decision that helped keep Atkins on the Plains. With Atkins returning, Auburn’s defense suddenly looks capable of reemerging as one of the most dangerous units in the country.
ESPN college football analyst Adam Rittenberg is among those eager to see what the Houston native brings in his junior season, naming Atkins one of the top non-quarterback playmakers to watch heading into the 2026 campaign.
Xavier Atkins poised to build on breakout year
“Auburn went through a difficult 2025 season that resulted in a coaching change, but Atkins broke out after arriving from LSU and will stay put as the Golesh era begins,” Rittenberg wrote. “He’s slightly undersized for a traditional linebacker or edge role, but his explosiveness stood out, consistently allowing him to get into the backfield and pressure quarterbacks. Atkins ranked third among linebackers in sacks and tackles for loss per game at 1.42.”
His 17 tackles for loss led the SEC and ranked as the third-highest single-season total in Auburn history, while also setting a new mark for an Auburn inside linebacker. Atkins also led the Tigers in total tackles and topped the stat sheet in seven of eight SEC contests.
The numbers only tell part of the story. Atkins finished the season with 17 tackles for loss, nine sacks, seven quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles, and one interception, making his presence felt all over the field.
He has already impressed his first-year head coach.
“Xavier is an All-American-level player who’s still growing and learning what leadership truly looks like,” Golesh said. “He’s a perfect fit for our system, and his physicality has taken a big step forward.”