In the competitive realm of college football recruiting, securing top-tier talent is paramount for sustained success. The Georgia Bulldogs, under the astute leadership of head coach Kirby Smart, have consistently demonstrated prowess in attracting elite prospects. The latest buzz centers around Ty’jaevian “Jae” Lamar, a four-star running back from Colquitt County High School in Moultrie, Georgia, who is widely anticipated to commit to the Bulldogs. This potential commitment has garnered significant attention, especially following predictions from recruiting experts like Benjamin Wolk of 247Sports.
Jae Lamar: A Rising Star
Standing at 6 feet and weighing 205 pounds, Jae Lamar has emerged as one of the most promising running backs in the 2026 recruiting class. Despite being relatively new to the sport—having started playing football at the age of 14—Lamar’s natural athleticism and rapid development have set him apart. In his junior season, he surpassed 1,000 all-purpose yards, showcasing his versatility and playmaking abilities. His performance has not only elevated his team’s success but also placed him on the radar of numerous top-tier college programs.
The Georgia Connection
The relationship between Lamar and the University of Georgia (UGA) predates his rise to prominence on the football field. Running backs coach Josh Crawford recognized Lamar’s potential early on, even before he had significant game film to showcase. Crawford’s prior recruitment of Lamar’s older brother at Western Kentucky established a foundation of trust and familiarity. Reflecting on this connection, Lamar stated, “Before I even hopped on the field, before anyone even knew my name, Coach Crawford stopped by my school, and he liked my size. He actually recruited my oldest brother, so he just already knew the type of abilities I had.” +1
This early recognition and the subsequent offer from Georgia have positioned the Bulldogs favorably in Lamar’s recruitment. The program’s storied history of producing elite running backs, often referred to as “RBU,” resonates with Lamar’s aspirations. He expressed admiration for Georgia’s player development and offensive schemes, noting, “Just because of some fact of it, being RBU, they have numerous great backs there. The player development, the way they run the ball, it’s just a lot of facts why I wanna be there.”
Recruiting Expert Insights
Benjamin Wolk, a seasoned recruiting analyst for 247Sports, has been closely monitoring Lamar’s trajectory. On February 21, 2025, Wolk submitted a “Crystal Ball” prediction favoring Georgia as Lamar’s likely destination. The “Crystal Ball” is a tool used by 247Sports experts to project where top recruits might commit, and Wolk’s prediction adds significant weight to the speculation surrounding Lamar’s future.
Wolk’s confidence in this prediction stems from multiple factors, including the established relationship between Lamar and the Georgia coaching staff, the program’s track record with running backs, and Lamar’s own expressed interest in the Bulldogs. Such expert insights often influence public perception and can impact the momentum of a recruit’s decision-making process.
The Recruitment Landscape
While Georgia appears to be the frontrunner, Lamar’s recruitment has attracted attention from several other prestigious programs. As of now, he has scheduled official visits to multiple schools, indicating a thorough evaluation process. However, the combination of Georgia’s early involvement, the coaching staff’s persistent engagement, and the program’s alignment with Lamar’s professional goals have seemingly given the Bulldogs a competitive edge.
Lamar has articulated his desire to join a program that not only hones his athletic skills but also prepares him comprehensively for the next level. He emphasized the importance of holistic development, stating, “I want to go somewhere where I know that in three or four years, I’m going to be ready to take that next step to the NFL. Somewhere where they are not just building on my body, somewhere that’s actually developing me as a player.”
Georgia’s Recruiting Strategy
The potential addition of Lamar aligns with Georgia’s broader recruiting strategy, which prioritizes securing top in-state talent to maintain the program’s competitive stature. The Bulldogs’ approach combines early identification of prospects, building strong relationships, and showcasing a clear pathway to professional advancement.
Under Coach Kirby Smart’s leadership, Georgia has consistently attracted elite recruits by emphasizing a culture of excellence, both on and off the field. The program’s success in developing NFL-ready players serves as a compelling testament to its commitment to player growth. Lamar’s potential commitment would not only bolster the Bulldogs’ 2026 class but also reinforce the program’s reputation as a premier destination for running back talent.
Looking Ahead
As the recruitment process progresses, all eyes will be on Jae Lamar’s forthcoming decision. While official commitments are subject to change until formal signing, the prevailing indicators suggest a strong likelihood of Lamar donning the red and black of Georgia. His addition would be a significant asset to the Bulldogs, promising to enhance their offensive arsenal in the coming seasons.
the anticipated commitment of Jae Lamar to the Georgia Bulldogs exemplifies the confluence of talent recognition, strategic recruitment, and programmatic appeal. As Georgia continues to solidify its standing among college football’s elite, securing top prospects like Lamar ensures the sustenance of a winning tradition and the promise of future triumphs on the gridiron.
A Community in Mourning
The outpouring of grief following Ben Christman’s passing has extended beyond the college football world and into the wider community. His hometown of Akron, Ohio, has been particularly affected, as residents recall his contributions not only as an athlete but as a role model for younger students and a compassionate friend.
Local businesses and schools have held memorial events in Christman’s honor, with Revere High School organizing a candlelight vigil attended by hundreds of students, faculty, and community members. Former teachers and coaches shared emotional tributes, recounting his dedication both on and off the field.
“Ben was always more than just an athlete. He was someone who genuinely cared about others and always made time to encourage the younger players,” said Revere High School’s football coach, Matt Kubus. “His loss is something that will be felt in our community for years to come.”
Additionally, local businesses have stepped forward to raise funds for the Ben Christman Memorial Scholarship, which will provide financial assistance to young athletes with aspirations of playing collegiate football.
Calls for Change in College Football Health Policies
In the aftermath of Christman’s sudden death, conversations have intensified regarding the health and safety of collegiate athletes. While the NCAA has established health protocols for student-athletes, critics argue that the current screening processes may not be sufficient to detect underlying heart conditions or other potentially life-threatening issues.
Sports cardiologists have suggested implementing mandatory electrocardiograms (EKGs) and echocardiograms for all college football players, as conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)—a leading cause of sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes—often go undetected in routine physical examinations.
Former Ohio State and NFL quarterback Cardale Jones took to social media to advocate for better health screenings in college athletics. “We push these kids to their limits every day. The least we can do is ensure they’re getting the most thorough medical evaluations possible,” he tweeted.
In response, athletic departments at several universities have announced plans to reassess their medical screening procedures. The University of Kentucky and UNLV have both indicated that they will be exploring additional health monitoring strategies for their student-athletes moving forward.
The NCAA has yet to issue an official response regarding potential changes, but with increasing pressure from both the public and medical professionals, it is possible that Christman’s passing may serve as a catalyst for future reform.
Remembering Ben: Stories from Those Who Knew Him Best
As tributes continue to pour in, many of Christman’s former teammates and coaches have shared personal stories that highlight the kind of person he was.
At Ohio State, Christman was known for his relentless work ethic, often staying late after practice to work on his technique and help younger players adjust to the demands of college football. “Ben was one of those guys who always made you feel like you belonged,” said former Ohio State offensive lineman Luke Wypler. “No matter where he was, he lifted up the people around him.”
During his time at Kentucky, Christman’s resilience stood out after he suffered a torn ACL that sidelined him for an entire season. Despite the injury, he remained a vocal leader on the sidelines, constantly encouraging his teammates and offering advice to younger players.
“Some guys, when they get hurt, they check out. Not Ben,” said Kentucky offensive line coach Zach Yenser. “He was at every meeting, every practice, every game, helping his teammates get better. That’s the kind of leader he was.”
At UNLV, though Christman had only been with the program for a short time, he had already made a lasting impression. Freshman lineman Marcus Phillips shared how Christman helped him adjust to the demands of college football. “I was struggling with some technique issues, and Ben stayed after practice with me every single day for a week, just giving me pointers. That’s the kind of teammate he was.”
A Lasting Tribute: How Christman’s Legacy Will Live On
In addition to the Ben Christman Memorial Scholarship and jersey retirements, discussions have emerged about how best to ensure that his legacy endures. UNLV has expressed interest in dedicating a permanent locker in Christman’s name, while Kentucky and Ohio State have proposed annual awards recognizing players who embody Christman’s values of leadership, dedication, and perseverance.
Meanwhile, Christman’s family is considering launching a foundation in his honor, aimed at promoting athlete health awareness and providing financial assistance to young athletes in need. His parents, deeply moved by the overwhelming support, have expressed gratitude to the community and stated their desire to turn their grief into something positive that will help future generations.
“We never want another family to go through what we’re going through,” said Christman’s father, Jim Christman. “If Ben’s passing can help prevent even one more tragedy, then his legacy will have made a difference.”
Final Reflections: A Life That Inspired Many
Ben Christman’s story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates, his sport, and the people around him. Though his life was tragically cut short, his impact on those who knew him will be felt for years to come.
As the college football world continues to mourn, one thing remains certain—Ben Christman will be remembered not just as a talented athlete, but as a teammate, a leader, and a friend who left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
His passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of athlete health and well-being, but it also serves as an inspiration to all those who aspire to play the game with the same heart and dedication that he did.
Rest in peace, Ben Christman. Your spirit will forever be a part of the game you loved.