Multiple outlets reported that Tyler Atkinson, the nation's top-ranked linebacker in the 2026 recruiting class, cancelled his official visit to Ohio State and will visit the Texas Longhorns this weekend.
Atkinson, a five-star prospect from Grayson High School in Loganville, Georgia, is widely regarded as one of the most coveted recruits in the country. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound defender is ranked as the No. 1 linebacker and the No. 8 overall prospect in his class. His decision to prioritize Texas over Ohio State marks a significant development in a recruitment battle that also features Clemson, Oregon, and Georgia.
“I am taking an official visit to Texas this weekend,” he said to On3 “We have some good relationships out there, we know what Texas is about, and we want to get back out there and ask a few more questions.”
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and assistant Johnny Nansen are leading the Longhorns’ pursuit of Atkinson. Sarkisian's staff is coming off recent recruiting successes in Georgia, including the commitment of five-star defensive lineman Justus Terry in the 2025 class.
MORE: Top 10 Oregon Ducks in college football video game
Atkinson has been viewed as positive towards Georgia; his continued interest in Texas signals that the Longhorns remain a serious contender. He is expected to announce his college decision before the start of his senior year. The Austin area is no stranger to Atkinson’s who reportedly trains there. He previously visited the Forty Acres on the weekend of Texas vs. Georgia last fall.
Atkinson's recruitment has drawn national attention due to his impressive high school resume. Last season, he recorded 166 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, and an interception, helping Grayson to a 14-1 record and a Georgia AAAAAA state championship. He was named MaxPreps Junior of the Year and is considered Georgia's No. 1 overall recruit by 247 Sports.
Texas faces stiff competition from Clemson, Oregon, and Georgia, but Atkinson's upcoming visit could play a pivotal role in shaping the final stages of his recruitment.