One of Clemson football’s top targets for the 2026 class is closing in on his college choice.
Five-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson confirmed this week that he’s down to four finalists: Clemson, Georgia, Texas and Oregon. He told Rivals.com on Wednesday that he’s moving closer to a decision after wrapping up his official visits.
Atkinson made his stop at Clemson back in May before heading to Oregon, Georgia and Texas to round out his trips. The Lawrenceville, Georgia native is the top-ranked linebacker in the country for 2026 and sits ninth overall in the 247Sports Composite.
Landing Atkinson would be a huge win for Dabo Swinney’s staff. The Tigers missed out on five-star defensive tackle Bryce Perry-Wright earlier this month, so they’re still looking for their first five-star commit of the cycle. Atkinson, who plays at Grayson High School — a Clemson pipeline for names like Wayne Gallman, Phil Mafah and Chase Brice — could help boost the Tigers back toward the top of the class rankings if he picks orange.
The Tigers impressed Atkinson by showing him how he could fit into their defense and even drew up specific packages for him during his visit. But they’ll have stiff competition. Georgia has the in-state pull and the track record under Kirby Smart. Oregon’s facilities continue to turn heads. Texas was his last stop, which always helps momentum.
Atkinson hasn’t announced when he’ll commit but has hinted that he might be ready before the summer’s over — unless Clemson can convince him to make one more swing through town before he makes things final.
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Publish date : 2025-07-09 23:06:00
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