Xavier Atkins Butkus Watchlist Contender | Auburn Tigers Football News

Xavier Atkins, Auburn’s explosive linebacker, has earned a spot on the preseason Dick Butkus Award watchlist — a major milestone for the player who transformed from a transfer with minimal stats into an All-American contender. After leading the SEC in tackles for loss and setting Auburn’s single-season record last year, Atkins now faces stiff competition but is poised to shine under new coach Alex Golesh, who calls him a perfect fit and a rising leader. His journey from LSU backup to top-tier linebacker is nothing short of legendary. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b06f744a366cb0aa