Education
He graduated from Oakland Technical High School in 1953, and played college football at New Mexico State University, where he was a halfback, flanker, and placekicker.
He graduated from Oakland Technical High School in 1953, and played college football at New Mexico State University, where he was a halfback, flanker, and placekicker.
In 1959 he became the first of four straight New Mexico State University players to lead the nation in rushing yardage with 130 carries for 971 yards. He played professionally in the American Football League for the Oakland Raiders in 1965 and 1966. He had previously played for the Los Angeles Rams and Washington Redskins.
On April 30, 2009, Atkins was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame.
He currently resides in Los Los Angeles