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College Football Powerhouse Makes Up Ground For Nation’s No. 1 Linebacker

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By J.C. Shelton | Last updated May 20, 2025 4:26 PM ET

Some of the top college football programs in the country are vying for a commitment from five-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson.

Atkinson (6-foot-2, 205 pounds) plays for Grayson High School in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He is rated as the No. 1 linebacker, the No. 1 player in the state and the No. 7 overall recruit in the 2026 class (On3).

Atkinson was named MaxPreps National Junior of the Year in 2024 after helping lead Grayson high to a Georgia 6A state championship and 14-1 record. The elite defender racked up 166 tackles (32 for loss) with 46 quarterback hurries, 13 sacks, an interception and a forced fumble last season.

Head coach Kirby Smart and the in-state Georgia Bulldogs have long been linked to Atkinson after maintaining a relationship that dates back to his middle school days.

The multiple visits to Georgia aside, Atkinson also took unofficial trips to Ohio State, Florida State, Texas, Miami, Auburn and Alabama last year.

Those contenders have visited Atkinson in his home this spring, including Clemson, which has reportedly made up ground on Atkinson's list.

Head coach Dabo Swinney sent the entire Tigers' defensive staff to meet with Atkinson last week and made a "strong impression," according to On3's Pete Nakos.

Atkinson has since scheduled an official visit to Clemson for later this month as he continues to mull over his options. Swinney's Tigers have been on a recruiting tear recently and hold the nation's No. 10 class.

The highly-anticipated decision from Atkinson is expected to stretch into his senior year at Grayson high. The Bulldogs are, for now, expected to sign their next elite linebacker, according to 247Sports' Tom Loy.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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