Announcement: Bulldogs Emerge as Favorites in Recruitment of 5-Star LB as Relationship with Glenn Schumann Keeps Georgia’s Chances High

Georgia remains a strong contender in the recruitment of 5-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson.

Every now and then, there’s a Peach State recruit who Georgia has known would be a 5-star his entire high school career. In the 2026 class, that’s Grayson (Ga.) linebacker Tyler Atkinson.

Atkinson’s visions of playing college football since he was 4 years old began to manifest themselves before he entered high school. Akron was the first school to jump on board, but Georgia and Georgia Tech followed suit immediately after. So, before Atkinson even entered high school, he was already one of Georgia’s most critical targets.

Add him to the list of guys like Elijah Griffin and Justus Terry who Georgia knew were destined for greatness before their varsity careers even began.

Georgia’s Recruiting Edge: Glenn Schumann

A key factor in Georgia’s pursuit of Atkinson is the relationship he has developed with Bulldogs defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Glenn Schumann. Schumann, who has been instrumental in building Georgia’s dominant defenses in recent years, is known for his ability to connect with recruits on a personal level while also offering a clear vision for their development.

 

Atkinson has repeatedly spoken highly of Schumann, praising his coaching style and the way he mentors his players. Schumann’s track record of developing elite linebackers—such as Nakobe Dean, Roquan Smith, and Nolan Smith—has undoubtedly caught Atkinson’s attention. The idea of learning under Schumann’s tutelage and becoming part of Georgia’s linebacker legacy is a major draw for the young star.

 

In interviews, Atkinson has hinted at how impactful his relationship with Schumann has been throughout the recruiting process. “Coach Schumann knows the game inside and out,” Atkinson said during a recent camp. “The way he develops his linebackers is something that really stands out to me. I know I would grow a lot under his coaching.”

 

Georgia’s Strong Position in Atkinson’s Recruitment

While other schools, including Alabama, Clemson, and Ohio State, are all in pursuit of Atkinson, Georgia’s edge in his recruitment cannot be understated. The Bulldogs’ recent national championships, their reputation for producing NFL-ready talent, and the family-like atmosphere fostered by the coaching staff have made them the top destination for many recruits, and Atkinson is no exception.

In addition to Schumann’s influence, Georgia’s defensive scheme aligns perfectly with Atkinson’s skill set. The Bulldogs’ aggressive, fast-paced defense allows linebackers to play freely and make plays all over the field, something that has undoubtedly caught Atkinson’s eye. Given his versatility and playmaking ability, he would fit seamlessly into Georgia’s system.

 

Georgia’s success in landing top linebackers in previous recruiting classes also plays a role in their standing with Atkinson. The Bulldogs have consistently brought in elite talent on the defensive side of the ball, and many believe Atkinson could be the next great linebacker to wear the red and black.

Although Georgia is currently considered the favorite, the recruitment of a player like Atkinson is rarely straightforward. Programs like Alabama and Clemson, known for their own linebacker legacies, are making a strong push to land the talented prospect. Atkinson’s recruitment is expected to continue for some time, and as the landscape shifts with new offers and visits, the pressure will build for Georgia to close the deal.

While there is still a long way to go before Atkinson makes his final decision, the Bulldogs’ chances look strong. For Georgia, landing Atkinson would further solidify their dominance in recruiting elite defensive talent and set the stage for another star linebacker to continue their tradition of excellence.