Florida sets sight on 5-star, No. 1 LB Tyler Atkinson

In recent weeks, the Gators have offered numerous high-profile prospects across several recruiting classes.

Among them was 5-star prospect and the No. 1-ranked linebacker in the 2026 class, Tyler Atkinson .

Hailing from Lawrenceville (Ga.) Grayson, Atkinson is also the No. 9-ranked prospect overall and No. 1-ranked prospect in Georgia. That is according to the On3 Industry Ranking .

“I visited UF back when I was going into my freshman year,” Atkinson told Gators Online . “UF is a strong program with a lot of history. The campus and facilities were really good, but I didn’t spend a lot of time in Gainesville to get a feel for the area.”

Exactly a week ago, it was linebackers coach Ron Roberts who extended an offer on behalf of Florida .

That relationship is at the beginning stage, but the highly-accomplished assistant is making a good impression.

“I have had good conversations with coach Roberts, but no strong relationships have been established yet,” said Atkinson. “They would really like me to be a part of their program, which is what we’ve talked about.”

While nothing is set, Atkinson says there is chance he returns to the Swamp sooner than later.

“I am working on a schedule for the summer, but not as of yet,” he said when asked if another Florida visit was scheduled.

Atkinson is in no hurry to cross the finish line

Last year on Sept. 27, the 6-foot-2, 205-pound defender shrunk his list for the first time.

Those included in his top 10 were Alabama, Auburn, Clemson, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, North Carolina, Ohio State, Tennessee and Texas. The in-state Bulldogs are trending in the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine early on, followed by Alabama and Florida State, respectively.

That list remains intact for the most part, so the Gators have plenty of work to do.

“I am still looking at my top 10, maybe with a couple of changes,” said Atkinson. “I am being patient so I can make the best choice.”

During the 2023 season, Atkinson was an absolute force and filled up the stat sheet along with it.

Season totals include an eye-popping 197 tackles, including 118 solo stops, 10.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and a blocked field goal.

Stay tuned to Gators Online .

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