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AtknUP in Austin: Five-star LB Tyler Atkinson commits to Texas

On3 imageby: Justin Wells07/15/25
Tyler Atkinson
Tyler Atkinson. (Justin Wells/Inside Texas)

Texas needed a difference maker at linebacker in the Class of 2026. Mission accomplished. Five-star Tyler Atkinson has committed to Texas, adding one of the best defenders in the nation to the Longhorns’ 2026 class.

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The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Lawrenceville (Ga.) Grayson product picked the Longhorns over Georgia, Oregon, and Clemson among his 50 offers. Alabama, Ohio State, Michigan, and Notre Dame also issued offers.

After his father recently told Inside Texas that Tyler would like to have a decision before the beginning of his senior season, it certainly didn’t take long for the Atkinsons to make a commitment after that conversation.

“It’s been a fun process for us,” said Tyler’s father, Victor Atkinson. “But Tyler has earned it each step. He’s handled it very well, he’s had the preparation, and now he’s getting closer. He’s weighing the pros, cons, and wants to utilize his resources for others too. It all needs to align with God, which is the most important factor.” 

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian jumped into the primary recruiter role earlier this year, and was able to get closer to the Peach State product during the month Atkinson hung out in Austin, including workouts with Texas-Ex Derrick Johnson. 

“Austin left a really good impression on Tyler,” said Victor. “After spending a month (there), he felt the really tight fit network in that city. He has a good comfort level at Texas.” 

Atkinson joins fellow five-stars Dia Bell and Richard Wesley in the Texas class, and is the second LB in the cycle with Kosi Okpala.

Atkinson is the No. 9 overall player, No. 1 linebacker, and No. 1 prospect in the State of Georgia for the Class of 2026, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking. He’s the No. 30 prospect, No. 2 LB, and No. 1 player in the Peach State, according to Rivals’ player rankings.

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