The Auburn Tigers have dismissed linebacker Xavier Atkins from the team, according to Jason Caldwell of Auburn247. Atkins, an All-American last year, is no longer listed on the online roster.
He was suspended for last week's game against the Georgia Bulldogs, with head coach Alex Golesh unwilling to provide clarity about his status on Monday ahead of Auburn's showdown with the LSU Tigers
this weekend.“We’re still working through it. We're continuing to work through it," Golesh said. "I don't have an update right now.”
Atkins took to Twitter on Monday night to say he will keep supporting his teammates but will be entering the transfer portal after the season.
"I have nothing but respect Auburn University and will continue to support my teammates
this season. 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 was in his second season with the Tigers after starting his career at LSU.
He 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. He will have two seasons of eligibility at his next school.
I have nothing but respect Auburn University and will continue to support my teammates this season. 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.
— Xavier “DEEBO” Atkins (@XavierAtkins8) October 20, 2026
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This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Auburn Tigers dismiss starting linebacker Xavier Atkins
