Missouri’s football program has high hopes for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, and a key piece of that puzzle is senior lineman Josh Atkins, who has been slated as the team’s starting right tackle. The position is more than a number on the depth chart; it is the last line of defense for a left‑handed quarterback whose blindside must be shielded at all costs.
Austin Simmons, the new face of the Tigers’ aerial attack, throws from the left side, making the right tackle the most critical spot on the offensive line. Atkins’ ability to hold that edge will directly influence the quarterback’s comfort and the overall rhythm of Missouri’s passing game.
Atkins arrives in Columbia with a résumé that spans stints at Houston, Arizona State and Hawaii, where he earned a reputation as a solid pass protector with refined technique. His collegiate journey has prepared him for the physical demands of the SEC, but the shift from left tackle to right tackle introduces a new set of challenges.
Health Concerns Loom
The spring brought an unexpected setback: a leg injury that forced Atkins to miss portions of the offseason program. While the coaching staff remains optimistic about his recovery, the timeline for full participation in fall camp remains uncertain, casting a shadow over the certainty of his availability for the season opener.
Should Atkins be limited, the Tigers have identified Logan Reichert and Colin Sorensen as the primary candidates to step in at right tackle. Both players have shown flashes of promise during spring drills, but they lack the veteran polish that Atkins brings, raising questions about the line’s cohesion early in the schedule.
Head coach Eli Drinkwitz, who took the reins in 2020, has emphasized continuity and development on the offensive line. He will rely on veteran position coach DJ Jones to guide the group through the transition, while also monitoring the progress of younger assistants such as Whit Hafer, who has been praised for his analytical approach to line play.
Beyond the immediate health concerns, Atkins’ adaptation to a new side of the line will be a focal point of practice sessions. The coaching staff has highlighted his technique, footwork and understanding of pass‑rush angles as assets that can translate across the formation, but the mental shift required to protect a left‑handed quarterback’s blindside is significant.
Fans and analysts alike are watching the Tigers’ offensive line closely, knowing that a stable pocket can unlock a potent passing attack. With a deep receiving corps and a dynamic running game, Missouri aims to compete for a conference title, and the success of that pursuit may hinge on whether Atkins can stay healthy and perform at a high level in his new role.