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Former Auburn Linebacker Xavier Atkins breaks silence after dismissal

Former Auburn linebacker Xavier Atkins has spoken out for the first time following his dismissal from the program, which came just days after a suspension kept him off the field during Auburn’s upset win over Georgia. Atkins, a standout defensive player, had been a key contributor this season with 37 tackles, three sacks, and seven tackles for loss in five games, building on a breakout 2025 campaign that earned him First-Team All-SEC and All-American honors.

His departure leaves a significant void in Auburn’s defense, particularly as the SEC schedule intensifies, though the Tigers managed to defeat Georgia without him earlier this month. Atkins, who transferred from LSU before becoming a defensive leader at Auburn, emphasized respect for the university while outlining his next steps: completing his academic semester and focusing on personal well-being before entering the transfer portal.

The junior’s decision to leave follows a season where he dominated with 17 tackles for loss and nine sacks in 2025, solidifying his reputation as one of college football’s top linebackers.

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