Auburn All-American linebacker Xavier Atkins dismissed from the program
AL.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Auburn All-American linebacker Xavier Atkins has been dismissed from the football program following a previous suspension, confirmed by a source to AL.com.
- Head coach Alex Golesh initially declined to update Atkins' status but confirmed the dismissal by Monday night, with Atkins no longer listed on Auburn’s roster.
- Atkins, who transferred from LSU and has been a key defensive player this season, posted on X that he respects Auburn and plans to focus on his health, family, academics, and entering the transfer portal.
- Atkins’ departure opens up more playing time for linebackers De’Marcus Riddick and Bryce Deas, who will need to step up alongside Elijah Melendez in the linebacker unit.
- Auburn faces LSU at Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday at 11 a.m. CT, with the game broadcast on ABC, marking a notable matchup for Atkins against his former school.
