Tavion Atkinson is a defensive end for SMU listed at 6'5" and 280 pounds. A three-star JUCO prospect according to recruiting services, Atkinson attended Trinity Valley CC. During his freshman year in 2024, he appeared in nine games and recorded 67 tackles with 49 solo tackles, 11.0 sacks, and five tackles for loss. In his sophomore season (2025), Atkinson appeared in eight games, totaling 52 tackles including 44 solo tackles, 5.0 sacks, and eight tackles for loss. He returns as a junior for the Mustangs.