After breaking out last season, Auburn linebacker Xavier Atkins is poised to become Auburn's next high-profile NFL draft pick.
Atkins made a statement in 2025 by leading the SEC in tackles for loss (17) and finishing third in sacks (9). Not only has Atkins become a household name in college football, but he has caught the eye of NFL scouts ahead of the new season.
Dane Brugler of The Athletic recently featured Atkins in his NFL Draft Summer Scouting series, where he ranked the best draft-eligible linebackers ahead of the 2026 season. Atkins checks in at No. 3 due to his incredible ball-carrier pursuit skills, which Brugler describes as "rabid."
The best example of Atkins' twitchy, rabid pursuit came on the Arkansas tape. Quarterback Taylen Green gave defenses trouble all season with his legs, but he managed only 14 rushing yards against Auburn — mostly because of Atkins' spying skills. Atkins finished the game with 13 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and one forced fumble.
In addition to providing a strength, Brugler also mentioned a weakness for each linebacker. Unfortunately for Atkins, his weakness is one he can not control.
#draft #sacks
Atkins made a statement in 2025 by leading the SEC in tackles for loss (17) and finishing third in sacks (9). Not only has Atkins become a household name in college football, but he has caught the eye of NFL scouts ahead of the new season.
Dane Brugler of The Athletic recently featured Atkins in his NFL Draft Summer Scouting series, where he ranked the best draft-eligible linebackers ahead of the 2026 season. Atkins checks in at No. 3 due to his incredible ball-carrier pursuit skills, which Brugler describes as "rabid."
The best example of Atkins' twitchy, rabid pursuit came on the Arkansas tape. Quarterback Taylen Green gave defenses trouble all season with his legs, but he managed only 14 rushing yards against Auburn — mostly because of Atkins' spying skills. Atkins finished the game with 13 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and one forced fumble.
In addition to providing a strength, Brugler also mentioned a weakness for each linebacker. Unfortunately for Atkins, his weakness is one he can not control.
#draft #sacks
3 months ago
