Auburn Stars Shine on 2026 College Football's Top Players List

Auburn Tigers quarterback Byrum Brown and linebacker Xavier Atkins have earned spots on USA Today's "Top 100 College Football Players for 2026." Brown was ranked 96th, with the publication noting his need to prove himself in the SEC. Atkins, however, was highly rated at 17th overall and is the second-highest ranked linebacker in the nation. Their recognition highlights their potential impact on the 2026 college football season.

In addition to the USA Today list, Brown has been named to the Manning Award Watch List, an honor recognizing outstanding quarterbacks. He is one of 40 passers included, and one of eight from the SEC on the initial list. This marks the first time an Auburn quarterback has been on this watch list since Bo Nix in 2021.

Atkins has also received accolades, being recognized as a potential candidate for the Dick Butkus, Walter Camp, and Bednarik Awards, which honor the nation's top linebackers and defensive players. The national recognition for these two key starters is seen as a positive indicator for Auburn's program under new head coach Alex Golesh.