"It’s all love for Georgia": Five-star LB target Tyler Atkinson's love for Bulldogs grows stronger after Junior Day visit

Ahead of last week's Navy All-American Bowl, five-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson said his recruitment is an "open book right now," but Georgia remains strong in the race. The standout prospect out of Grayson High School (Georgia) returned to the Bulldogs this weekend for the school's big junior day and gave Kirby Smart's program an edge in his recruitment.

"It’s all love for Georgia,” Atkinson told On3.

Tyler Atkinson has held an offer from Georgia for over a year, and this marks his third visit to the school since early November. The Bulldogs coaching staff has hosted him for more unofficial and official visits than any other school in the nation.

As an in-state program, Georgia holds an advantage in Atkinson's recruitment, with On3 giving it a 32.3% chance. The Bulldogs currently have four commits in their 2026 class, including four-star wide receiver Vance Spafford.

Kirby Smart flew to meet Tyler Atkinson in person

Although Tyler Atkinson arrived at the Georgia facility a day later, Kirby Smart ensured a personal touch in his recruitment by flying in via helicopter to meet the in-state prospect on Friday.

"Appreciate you flying in to spend some time with me @KirbySmartUGA #GoDawgs #AtkNup," Atkinson wrote on X.

Smart had also flown in by helicopter to attend one of Atkinson’s games in October. Before the recent visit, Atkinson praised Smart in an interview with On3, saying:

"Coach Smart is a great coach. I’ve been around coach Kirby and he loves what I can do on the field. I have a good relationship with him."

In just three seasons of high school football, Atkinson has accumulated around 500 tackles. Earlier this month, he was named the 2024 MaxPreps National Junior of the Year after leading his high school to a 14-1 record and an AAAAAA state championship. He recorded 166 tackles, one forced fumble, 13 sacks, 46 quarterback hurries and one interception in his junior season.

Tyler Atkinson is the top linebacker in the 2026 class and the top prospect in Georgia, according to On3. He is also the No. 9 recruit in the nation. Keeping him in-state will be a key priority for Smart and his coaching staff.