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Auburn LB Xavier Atkins Dismissed from Program
20 Oct
Summary
- Junior linebacker Xavier Atkins was dismissed from the Auburn Tigers program on Monday night.
- Atkins had previously been suspended for the Tigers' upset win against Georgia.
- He led the team in tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles in his first season with the Tigers.
The Auburn Tigers will be without junior linebacker Xavier Atkins for the remainder of the 2026 season. Atkins was dismissed from the program on Monday night, a decision that follows his suspension during the Tigers' upset win against Georgia.
Atkins, a transfer from LSU, quickly became a key defensive player for Auburn. In his first season, he led the team in tackles, solo tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles, while also topping the SEC in tackles for loss. He earned multiple accolades in 2025, including Second Team All-America and First Team All-SEC honors.
This season, Atkins had recorded 37 total tackles, including three sacks. His absence will require a 'next man up' approach, with sophomore Elijah Melendez expected to fill the void. Melendez has been a standout player, currently leading the team in total tackles and sacks.
