Clemson Sends Strong Message by Prioritizing 5-Star LB Tyler Atkinson

With Gordon off the board, Clemson’s linebacker group for the visit weekend now centers on just one name: Tyler Atkinson, the No. 1 linebacker and No. 9 overall player in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite.

This isn’t just a shift in numbers — it’s a shift in strategy.

Atkinson, a 6-foot-3, 215-pound wrecking ball out of Grayson High School in Georgia, is a game-changer. He led his team to a state title while racking up 166 tackles, 32 TFLs, and 13 sacks. He was named the MaxPreps National Junior of the Year and the Class 6A Defensive Player of the Year by multiple outlets.

Clemson is betting big that they can win him over.

“Clemson was one of my Top 10 schools before they even offered me,” Atkinson said, signaling just how deep the relationship already runs. His official visit from May 30 to June 1 will be his first of the summer — a major advantage for the Tigers, who are trying to close the gap on perceived leader Georgia.

Clemson is now going all in. And with Dabo Swinney and his staff prioritizing elite defensive talent in this class, Atkinson has become the crown jewel. He’s the type of player who can not only anchor a defense, but also elevate a recruiting class, send a message to future prospects, and set the tone for Clemson’s next era.

They may have lost one linebacker visit this weekend — but Clemson is now all eyes, all energy, and all ambition locked on the one that matters most.