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All-SEC, Walter Camp All-American linebacker announces he will return to Auburn

As a sophomore, Atkins record 17 tackles for a loss and nine sacks as one of the Tigers' key defenders.
ByBrian Stultz|
Auburn Tigers linebacker Xavier Atkins (17) celebrates his sack as Auburn Tigers take on Alabama Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Auburn Tigers 27-20.
Auburn Tigers linebacker Xavier Atkins (17) celebrates his sack as Auburn Tigers take on Alabama Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated Auburn Tigers 27-20. | Jake Crandall/ Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Alex Golesh and DJ Durkin have their best defensive player coming back for another year on the Plains.

On Wednesday, First Team All-SEC and Walter Camp All-American honoree Xavier Atkins announced on Twitter/X that he is returning for his junior season after a breakout sophomore campaign.

A transfer from LSU, Atkins was better than advertised in 2025, recording 84 total tackles, 17 tackles for a loss, nine sacks, seven quarterback hurries, two fumbles forced, one interception and one pass broken up. 

Xavier Atkins was a beast for Auburn in 2025

He was a menace for a Durkin-led defense that finished 30th in the FBS in total defense, allowing 329.2 yards per game and 20.2 points per game, good for 32nd.

One of his best plays came at Texas A&M as he returned an interception 73 yards, setting up the Tigers’ only touchdown in a 16-10 loss to the Aggies. 

With Atkins deciding to remain on the Plains, he should helm up a dynamic linebacker corps alongside Robert Woodyard Jr. and Elijah Melendez. 

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