Georgia Bulldogs stars dominating the NFL in their rookie seasons they also had this to say about Georgia
Georgia Bulldogs Stars Dominating the NFL in Their Rookie Seasons: “It All Started in Athens”
The 2024 NFL season had been a revelation, showcasing a new wave of rookies taking the league by storm. Leading the pack were several former Georgia Bulldogs, whose dominance on the field had become a testament to the powerhouse program in Athens.
Jalen Carter, now anchoring the defensive line for the Philadelphia Eagles, had quickly made a name for himself as one of the most disruptive forces in the league. His blend of power and speed left offensive lines scrambling. Carter, a soft-spoken leader, credited Georgia for shaping him into a pro-ready star.
“At Georgia, every day was a grind,” Carter said. “The competition in practice, the coaching from Kirby Smart, and the brotherhood we had—that prepared me for moments like this.”
Brock Bowers, the dynamic tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, had redefined his position in just a few short months. With his combination of agility and toughness, he was already drawing comparisons to Hall of Famers. Bowers reflected on his time in Athens with pride.
“Coach Smart and the staff demanded excellence,” Bowers explained. “The standard wasn’t just to win games but to dominate. That mindset has carried over to everything I do.”
Kelee Ringo, now a shutdown corner for the Arizona Cardinals, had solidified his reputation as one of the most electrifying young defenders in the game. Ringo, who famously sealed Georgia’s 2022 national championship with a pick-six, spoke about how Georgia’s environment bred champions.
“We were taught to embrace pressure,” Ringo said. “Playing in the SEC, under the brightest lights, you either rise or fold. At Georgia, we rose every time.”
The NFL rookies were quick to point out that their success wasn’t just about talent—it was about the culture. Nolan Smith, now a linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, summed it up best:
“Georgia is special because it’s not just about football,” Smith said. “It’s about building men, creating leaders, and forming a bond that lasts forever. When you play for Georgia, you’re playing for something bigger than yourself.”
As these Bulldogs shone on Sundays, their alma mater back in Athens continued to churn out NFL-ready players. Kirby Smart, their former coach, couldn’t help but beam with pride.
“Seeing those guys succeed doesn’t surprise me,” Smart said in a press conference. “They’re just getting started. What they’re doing in the NFL is exactly what we expected.”
For the Georgia faithful, watching their stars dominate the league felt like an extension of the program’s dominance. From Athens to the NFL, the Bulldogs were proving they were a force to be reckoned with—on any field,
under any lights.