Notes: Redshirted in 1994. Had 22 stops and a sack as a backup linebacker and special-team player in '95. Moved to strong safety-rover in '96 and had 25 stops, a sack and two tackles for loss. Starting strong safety and Defensive MVP in '97, when he had 44 tackles, four sacks, six interceptions (which he returned for 154 yards), three blocked kicks and three fumble recoveries. Played free safety in '98 and generally had to line up deep rather than close to the line of scrimmage. Finished the year with a team-high 85 tackles, picked off four passes and got his hands on 10 others. Won All-Pacific-10 honors but was not the impact player he had been in '97, when he lined up close to the line. Ran a 4.74 when he weighed 228 pounds. Had right knee scoped after the season.

Positives: Excellent size. Fine competitor. Pretty good all-around athlete. Tough and aware. Has a knack for making big plays when he lines up close to the line of scrimmage.

Negatives: Really did not get serious about football until '97. Was a basketball junkie until then. Good all-around athlete but not a top athlete for a defensive back when it comes to breaking down and making sure open-field tackles and playing man-on-man coverage. Lacks some quickness, speed and change of direction and is not very smooth turning. Will lose something in transition. Has to be in the type of defense that fits what he does. Will be nothing more than an extra defensive back or linebacker who plays on special teams and in special situations if he isn't.

Summary: Needs to be lined up close to the line and be used a lot like the 49ers use Tim McDonald to be effective. Atkins isn't for everyone, but he could be effective in the right situation.

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