One of the top players on the Auburn Tigers' defense will no longer be with the team for the rest of the season, nor for the rest of his career.
On Monday night, reports came out that star linebacker Xavier Atkins wasbeing dismissed by the team. Atkins, who was an All-American last year, is no longer listed on the online roster. Following this event, Atkins took to social media and announced that, when the time is right, 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. "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."
Atkins started four
of Auburn's first five games before his dismissal and was a key part of the defense, recording 37 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, one interception, and three quarterback hurries in five games. He missed Saturday's game against No. 1 Georgia, and his status was considered uncertain.
Atkins was named a Second-Team All-American and First-Team All-SEC member last year after making 84 tackles, 17.0 tackles for loss, 9.0 sacks, one interception, and two forced fumbles.
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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Auburn star LB Xavier Atkins to transfer after team dismissal
