Texas lands commitment from 5-star outside linebacker Atkinson

Five-star outside linebacker Tyler Atkinson announced his commitment to Texas on "The Pat McAfee Show" on Tuesday.

Atkinson chose the Longhorns over fellow finalists Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon.

The 6-foot-2, 215-pound Atkinson is the top-rated outside linebacker and the No. 14 overall prospect in the 2026 recruiting class, according to the ESPN 300. The Georgia native recorded 166 total tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 13 sacks as a junior at Grayson High School during the 2024-25 season.

Atkinson made official visits to see all four finalists before making his decision. He credited Texas' coaching staff for outlining his potential role in the program.

"Coach Sark and the entire staff made me feel like a priority and that I could be a key piece to the defense," Atkinson said last month, according to Inside Texas' Justin Wells.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian and the Longhorns continue to add to a talented group of prospects, which includes 12 ESPN 300 members committed for the 2026 campaign. Atkinson becomes the third five-star prospect to give his verbal pledge to the program, following quarterback Dia Bell and defensive end Richard Wesley.