'I know I can grow, get developed, and help them win their first natty' - Five-star target gives the Oregon Ducks rave remarks heading into make or break visit

I know I can grow, get developed, and help them win their first natty," Atkinson told On3. 

Atkinson is rated as a five-star player by multiple of the major recruiting platforms. On the 247Sports Composite ranking, Atkinson is currently rated as the No. 9 overall player and No. 1 linebacker in the 2026 recruiting class. He also ranks as the No. 1 player in the state of Georgia, one of the very best areas for developing next level talent. Atkinson is rated similarly on the On3 Industry ranking, sitting as the No. 8 overall player and No. 1 linebacker in the class.

The Georgia star is being pursued by an extremely deep group of outstanding football programs. Some of Atkinson's top offers currently include the Ducks, Georgia, Ohio State, Texas, Alabama, Notre Dame, Michigan, LSU, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Miami, Penn State, Clemson, Auburn, Florida, Texas A&M, USC, Florida State, Missouri, Nebraska, Louisville, Colorado, South Carolina, Michigan State, Arizona State, Arkansas, Pittsburgh, Georgia Tech, Maryland, Indiana, UCF, Virginia Tech, West Virginia, NC State, Mississippi State, Baylor, Kansas, and Rutgers among several others.

During his junior season, Atkinson put together an unreal year for Grayson. In 13 games, the 6-2, 210-pound defender managed to collect 166 total tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 13 sacks. Atkinson also posted another 39 quarterback hurries, one interception, three pass breakups, one forced fumble, and a blocked kick.