Junior Xavier Atkins is looking to build upon his record-breaking 2025 campaign, when he became the first Auburn linebacker since 2003 to be named to both All-American and All-SEC teams following the season. Last year, he led the Tigers with 84 tackles, 9 sacks, and 17.5 tackles for loss. After this morning’s practice, Atkins shared with the media how he has become an even better player this year.
“Knowing what to do now…Knowing like when, in certain situations like what to be expecting like we get into red zone being more alert for shots and quarterback run.” Atkins says being in the same system this year allows him to play faster and not think as much. He also has confidence in his defensive line which had to replace guys like Keldric Faulk and Keyron Crawford.
Atkins has seen first hand the new guys step up and impress the coaches. “They are taking that step up to…feel like we’re gonna get the job done. Atkins also has confidence in the guys behind him. Auburn’s secondary will have two new starters at cornerback, but the safety position figures to be among the best units on the team, with numerous returning veterans and very talented younger guys.
“We just got a lot of dogs back there we got we got a lot of guys out there that don't get a lot of praise…We've got a lot of guys that are going to go out there and make some plays when their name is called,” Atkins said after practice on Tuesday.
Atkins also said he is looking forward to Saturday afternoon where he can be on the field with his brothers. He told the media this linebacking group is different from last year in that their work ethic has changed. Atkins added they know what they are going to get out of every player in that room.
Auburn’s team record for tackles in a season is 193. The record for one game is 26. Both of those records are held by Auburn legend Fast Freddie Smith, who roamed the gridiron for the Tigers in the 1970s. Before Smith recorded 26 tackles in a game, he set a then-record with 22 stops as a freshman against the Baylor Bears. Xavier Atkins will be looking to add to his already impressive career resume against those same Bears on Saturday at 2:30 p.m.
Auburn Undercover is an independent Auburn sports media company covering Auburn athletics, recruiting and insider news.
