Linebacker Xavier Atkins is officially off the Auburn football team.
Atkins is showing nothing but class in the wake of his departure, which comes after he was suspended ahead of this past Saturday's win over Georgia.
Atkins took to social media to announce he'd be entering the transfer portal when appropriate after the season. He showed "nothing but respect" for his teammates and Auburn University in his farewell message.
"I have nothing but respect (for) 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 said.
On3's Justin Hokanson reported that "The situation took a turn late Monday night, resulting in Atkins’ dismissal from the team."
Alex Golesh just made the biggest decision of his Auburn career yet
Alex Golesh said that Atkins and the team were working through the situation earlier in the day on Monday while speaking to the media.
By midnight on the East Coast, the news had broken containment across the college football world. Atkins wasn't coming back after the Tigers upset the Dawgs 27-24 in Athens without him.
The news comes just days before Auburn is set to host LSU, Atkins' first team. While Atkins didn't make much of an impact in Baton Rouge in 2024, he came on strong during the 2025 season as AU's sack leader.
Though Atkins has two more years of eligibility, ESPN's Pete Thamel noted that "Atkins is a third-year player who would be eligible for the NFL draft if he elected to leave school."
Atkins should have plenty of suitors in college football and the NFL.
Wherever he lands next, Atkins did himself plenty of favors with Auburn's fanbase by taking the high road on his way out.
Regardless of what happens next on the Plains, Golesh just made it clear that it's his way or the highway. After beating Georgia, few are going to take issue with his authority.
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