Auburn make final decision on suspended linebacker Xavier Atkins appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Auburn has dismissed linebacker Xavier Atkins from its football program, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. He had been suspended for Saturday’s 27-24 upset win over Georgia. The decision came on Monday night, ending the junior’s time with the Tigers ahead of their upcoming matchup against his former team, the LSU Tigers.
Atkins was reportedly unavailable for the game against the Bulldogs because of a disciplinary issue. Head coach Alex Golesh declined to discuss the specifics when announcing the suspension last week, saying the matter would remain internal. Although Golesh indicated earlier Monday that the situation was still being addressed, the program ultimately decided to part ways with the 21-year-old.
Atkins had also reportedly missed the start of the Tigers’ game versus Southern Miss earlier this season because of internal discipline. He was one of Auburn’s leading defensive contributors this season, recording 37 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and one interception. His 7.5 tackles for loss ranked fifth in the SEC and second on the Tigers’ roster behind Elijah Melendez.
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The linebacker transferred to Auburn after beginning his college career at LSU. He earned All-American recognition in 2025, finishing that season with 84 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, nine sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception. His 17 tackles for loss led the SEC, and he received preseason first-team All-SEC honors ahead of the 2026 campaign.
Without Atkins in the lineup, the Tigers’ defense still performed admirably against Georgia, the nation’s highest-ranked team. Melendez and Bryce Deas combined for 17 tackles, with Melendez contributing nine and Deas finishing with eight.
Melendez also recorded a sack, a pass breakup and an interception. The Bulldogs finished with just 113 rushing yards, while Pro Football Focus credited Auburn’s defense with a season-low seven missed tackles.
Atkins’ departure is expected to create additional opportunities for Melendez, Deas and Demarcus Riddick at linebacker. Deas played 50 snaps versus Tennessee and started against the Bulldogs.
The Tigers, now 4-2, will host No. 18 LSU at Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday.
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