Oregon was a finalist for five-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson but fell short as he committed to Texas. The Longhorns’ linebacker development and recent defensive surge proved too much for Dan Lanning’s Ducks to overcome.

NEWS: Five-Star LB Tyler Atkinson is down to Clemson, Georgia, Oregon, & Texas, he tells me for @rivals The 6’2 215 LB is one of the Top Overall Recruits in the 2026 Class Atkinson says a commitment is coming soon ⏳ https://t.co/pnxd0NnkQr pic.twitter.com/kC7e8HGLHL

Along with being the top player at his position, Atkinson is also ranked the No. 1 overall recruit in Georgia and the No. 9 player nationally for the 2026 cycle, according to 247Sports composite.