Auburn linebacker Xavier Atkins earns Bednarik Award preseason nod

Auburn linebacker Xavier Atkins has been named to the 2026 Bednarik Award preseason watchlist. This acknowledgment comes after a strong performance in the previous season, where he recorded 84 total tackles and nine sacks. Last year, Atkins was recognized as a semifinalist for the award, which honors the best defensive player in college football. He was pivotal in Auburn's defense during the 2025 season, highlighted by notable performances against Texas A&M, Missouri, and Arkansas. In addition to the Bednarik Award watchlist, Atkins was also selected for the AP All-American team last week.

• 1:54 PMYahoo Sports — Auburn LB Xavier Atkins adds another preseason nod to his list