Tyler Atkinson announced via The Pat McAfee Show that he is going to play his collegiate career at Texas. He chose the Longhorns over Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon. Atkinson is the No. 1 linebacker in the Class of 2026, according to Rivals.
He had an outstanding junior season for the Rams as he recorded 166 total tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 13 sacks. Atkinson strives on locking down both the running and passing attack from the opposing offense. He brings a lot of speed and elusiveness as he evades opposing offensive linemen to get after the quarterback or running back. Atkinson also can make immediate tackles to limit the opposition’s gain to a short amount of yards. His dominance on defense was key to Grayson winning the Class 6A state championship game last season, 38-24 over Carrollton.
Atkinson spoke about how difficult the decision was to choose Texas over the other three schools.
“It was a very tough choice,” He said. “I really have good relationships with all the schools but Texas checked all the boxes for me.”
He gave a lot of credit to head coach Steve Sarkisian when he was being recruited by the Longhorns.
“Coach Sark has been great. He led my recruitment and has a great vision for the Longhorns that I want to be a part of,” Atkinson said.
He aims to repeat as a state champion entering his senior season with the Rams before he makes his way to Austin.
BREAKING: Five-Star LB Tyler Atkinson has Committed to Texas!
The 6’2 215 LB from Lawrenceville, GA chose the Longhorns over Georgia, Oregon, & Clemson
He’s ranked as the No. 1 LB in the ’26 Class (per Rivals)https://t.co/pnxd0NmN0T pic.twitter.com/M9RCJrz8YU
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) July 15, 2025
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