The Missouri Tigers are taking decisive steps to reinforce their offensive line for the upcoming 2026 season, announcing a key addition through the NCAA Transfer Portal. Following the departure of All-American tackle Keagen Trost to the NFL, head coach Eli Drinkwitz and his staff have acted quickly to ensure the Tigers’ offensive front remains competitive.
The Tigers have secured a commitment from tackle Josh Atkins, who brings a wealth of experience to Columbia. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 315 pounds, Atkins has started 39 consecutive games across multiple programs, including Hawaii, Arizona State, and previously Houston. His tenure at Arizona State over the past two seasons saw him anchor the Sun Devils’ offensive line, demonstrating both durability and high-level performance in the Pac-12.
Atkins will provide the Tigers with immediate depth and versatility on the offensive line. While he has primarily played left tackle, Missouri may deploy him at right tackle to complement Cayden Green, who is expected to return to left guard, a position where he has previously excelled. This flexibility gives Drinkwitz multiple options to protect the quarterback and stabilize the run game.
The addition of Atkins marks the second offensive lineman Mizzou has added from the portal this cycle, following former Mississippi State lineman Luke Work. With these acquisitions, Missouri has addressed one of the most pressing needs from the 2025 roster, which saw eight linemen either exhaust their eligibility or transfer.
Entering the 2026 season, the Tigers now boast ten transfer commitments, contributing to the program’s No. 13-ranked recruiting class in the country. With reinforcements at quarterback, defensive back, and the offensive line, Missouri is building a roster capable of returning to SEC competitiveness, though defensive end remains a position of focus following the loss of Damon Wilson II.
Atkins’ arrival provides optimism that Mizzou can continue the success story started by Keagen Trost, aiming to maintain elite performance at the tackle position while giving the Tigers a reliable veteran presence on the offensive front.
