Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart arrives ahead of the matchup against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Caesars Superdome.
Though the 2025 college football season has yet to begin, University of Georgia head coach Kirby Smart already sees the cornerback unit as a major team strength. After finishing 11-3 in the 2024–2025 season—winning the SEC title and earning a spot in the debut 12-team playoff—the Bulldogs fell in the quarterfinals, losing 23-10 to Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. Still, the secondary is shaping up as a key pillar in Georgia’s renewed national title aspirations.
Throughout the offseason, Smart praised the defensive backfield’s increased experience and depth, particularly at corner. Returners like Daylen Everette and Daniel Harris are leading the way, but optimism in Athens is building thanks to the youth movement. Underclassmen Ellis Robinson IV and Demello Jones are driving internal competition, and early standouts like Jontae Gilbert and reclassified freshman Dominick Kelly are turning heads.
Smart’s trust in the group stems from their steady development this summer. As noted by Dawgs247’s Jordan Hill, the Georgia head coach—entering his 10th season guiding the program—shared that the cornerbacks have impressed across the board.
“Donte Williams has done a great job with all the corners. Guys like Demello have improved, made more plays, and tackled better. Dom and Jonate as younger players are improving. They’ve both been great, and the two you mentioned [Robinson and Harris] have also made real progress during the year.”
This rise is key for a defense that may have to carry the team early on. With Gunner Stockton stepping into the quarterback role and some uncertainty around the offense’s rhythm, Georgia’s defense must lead the way if the Bulldogs are to compete for a title.
That defensive spark is centered around the corners. Kelly impressed in spring drills, making an interception and breaking up a pass during the G-Day game, while Robinson continues to show the elite skills he was recruited for. Their rise highlights Georgia’s top-tier recruiting and the team’s “next man up” culture.
And the timing couldn’t be more crucial. In the second season of the 12-team College Football Playoff format, depth will be essential—especially in the secondary—for any team with championship hopes. With looming matchups against Alabama, Texas, and Ole Miss, a deep, dependable cornerback unit isn’t just helpful. It’s required.
Be the first to comment