John Atkins (American football)

John Atkins (born December 21, 1992) is an American football defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Georgia.

College career
Atkins spent five seasons as a member of Georgia Bulldogs, redshirting his freshman year. During his redshirt senior season, Atkins made 38 tackles, including one for a loss, as the Bulldogs' starting nose tackle.

New England Patriots
Atkins signed with the New England Patriots as an undrafted free agent on April 29, 2018. Considered a long shot to make the team, Atkins was cut by the Patriots at the end of training camp on September 1, 2018.

Detroit Lions
Atkins was signed to the Detroit Lions' practice squad on September 3, 2018. Atkins was waived by the team on November 30, 2018 but subsequently re-signed to the practice squad. Aktins was promoted to the Lions' Active roster on December 18, 2018 after defensive tackle Da'Shawn Hand was placed on injured reserve. Atkins made his NFL debut on December 23, 2018 in a 27-9 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, making two tackles (one for loss).