Auburn LB Xavier Atkins to enter transfer portal after reported dismissal from team
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Former Auburn star linebacker Xavier Atkins has been dismissed from the team, ESPN's Pete Thamel reported late Monday, Oct. 19.
Atkins was suspended for the Tigers' upset over then-No. 1 Georgia in Week 7 for an undisclosed reason, with first-year coach Alex Golesh noting the team would handle the situation internally.
The first-team All-SEC selection in 2025 wrote he will be entering the transfer portal.
"I have nothing but respect Auburn University and will continue to support my teammates this season," Atkins wrote on social media. "My focus is on my health, my family, and on finishing up the academic semester strong, and I’ll be entering the transfer portal at the appropriate time."
One of the best defenders in college football, Atkins finished the 2025 season with 84 total tackles, nine sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception after transferring from LSU. He already had 37 total tackles with three sacks and an interception through five games this season.
Golesh was asked about Atkins' status on Oct. 19 but said he didn't have any updates and that the team was still working through it.
Atkins was a four-star recruit in the 2024 class, per 247Sports' Composite rankings. He was the No. 334-ranked player nationally and No. 25 linebacker, and chose LSU over Central Florida, TCU, Utah and Arkansas.
Atkins is eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft, but he'd be one of the top available transfers in college football if he goes through with his transfer portal entry.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Auburn LB Xavier Atkins to enter transfer portal after reported dismissal from team
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