Preseason Hype
Xavier Atkins, a junior linebacker who made the move from LSU to Auburn, is quickly becoming a focal point of the Tigers’ defense as the 2026 season approaches.
His preseason résumé is already impressive, with selections to the Walter Camp Player of the Year watchlist and the Walter Camp Player of the Week list for week one, as well as appearances on the Pro Football Network Preseason All‑American, CBS Sports Top 150 and Butkus Award watchlists.
During his sophomore year at Auburn he logged 84 total tackles, 17 tackle‑for‑losses, nine sacks and one interception across 12 starts, numbers that have drawn praise from analysts and fans alike.
The Tigers will open their campaign against Baylor in Atlanta, Georgia, on September 5 as part of the Aflac Kickoff Game, a matchup that promises to showcase Atkins’ growing influence on the field.
Coaches and teammates alike expect the linebacker to anchor a defense that could be among the most disruptive in the SEC, and his performance in the upcoming game could set the tone for a breakout season.