Georgia Football Spring Practice Preview: What to Expect From the Bulldogs
As the leaves begin to turn green and the sun shines brighter over the University of Georgia’s campus in Athens, fans start eagerly anticipating the next chapter of Georgia Bulldogs football. Coming off back-to-back national championships, expectations for the 2025 season remain sky-high, and spring practice represents the first tangible glimpse into the next wave of talent and development under head coach Kirby Smart.
With a program that has grown accustomed to winning at the highest level, Georgia’s spring practice will once again be critical for refining both returning talent and emerging stars. From quarterback battles to revamped defensive strategies, let’s break down what to expect from the Bulldogs this spring.
1. Quarterback Battle: The Heart of Georgia’s Offense
For the first time in a few seasons, Georgia enters spring practice without a clear-cut starting quarterback. After the departure of two-time national champion and Heisman finalist Stetson Bennett, the Bulldogs are faced with a unique and exciting challenge: finding their next leader under center.
The frontrunners for the position are Carson Beck and Brock Vandagriff, both of whom have shown promise during their limited opportunities in past seasons. Beck, a former four-star recruit, served as Bennett’s backup last year and has the advantage of more game experience. Vandagriff, a blue-chip talent who has spent the last two years learning the system, is itching for his chance to take the reins. Both have been putting in the work this offseason to prove they’re the guy to lead Georgia into the future.
Key Points to Watch:
- Beck’s experience vs. Vandagriff’s upside: Beck might have the edge in terms of experience, but Vandagriff brings a more dynamic skill set to the table with his athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs.
- Practice consistency: Both quarterbacks will be battling for reps throughout spring practice. Look for offensive coordinator Mike Bobo to put them through rigorous tests to see who can consistently run the offense.
- Game-like situations: Smart has always emphasized the importance of competition. Expect to see both quarterbacks get a substantial amount of snaps in scrimmages to see how they handle pressure and make decisions in real-time situations.
While it’s unlikely that Georgia will name a starting quarterback before the conclusion of spring practice, fans will get an early sense of how these quarterbacks handle the spotlight and lead their teammates.
2. Running Back Room: Reloading and Depth
Georgia has become synonymous with producing elite running backs, and the 2025 season should be no different. The Bulldogs are losing workhorse back Kenny McIntosh, who was a pivotal part of the offense over the past several seasons. However, Georgia’s running back room is stacked with talent, and spring practice will be crucial for sorting out the pecking order and defining roles.
Key Players to Watch:
- Dajon Edwards: Edwards is perhaps the most experienced back in the room after serving as a reliable contributor in McIntosh’s absence last season. His ability to find gaps and churn out tough yards will be key in the spring.
- Kendall Milton: Milton, a former five-star recruit, is finally healthy after battling injuries over the past couple of years. His explosive ability and physical running style could make him the breakout star of spring practice.
- Branson Robinson: Robinson, another highly touted recruit, is known for his downhill running style and power. He impressed during his freshman season, and his development will be a storyline to watch this spring.
- Roderick Robinson: The freshman out of California has big shoes to fill, but the 6’2″, 230-pound back has the size and strength to make an immediate impact.
Spring practices will allow offensive coordinator Mike Bobo and running backs coach Dell McGee to establish roles and rotations. With Georgia’s physical running game often being a focal point of their offense, whoever steps up during spring will have a direct impact on how the Bulldogs attack defenses in the fall.
3. Wide Receiver Development: Building Chemistry
Georgia has had a relatively low-key receiver group over the past couple of seasons, but the Bulldogs are on the verge of an offensive transformation. With a new starting quarterback on the horizon and questions surrounding the offensive identity, the wide receiver corps will play a significant role in spring practice. The development of the wideouts will be integral to how the offense operates in 2025.
Key Players to Watch:
- Ladd McConkey: McConkey has been one of Georgia’s most consistent receivers over the past few years. He brings a unique blend of speed and agility that makes him a threat in the open field. His experience will be critical in helping the quarterbacks transition.
- Arian Smith: Smith is a speedster who has had flashes of brilliance throughout his career, but he has struggled to stay healthy. If he can stay on the field, his vertical threat could become a weapon in the Bulldogs’ offense.
- Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint: Rosemy-Jacksaint has been a steady presence for Georgia and will be an important asset in both the passing game and blocking schemes.
- Freshmen to watch: Georgia brought in a talented crop of wide receiver recruits, including Raymond Cottrell and Tyler Williams, both of whom have the potential to make immediate impacts.
Spring practice will be a time for these receivers to build chemistry with the quarterbacks and prove they can be trusted to run clean routes and execute in critical situations. The connection between the new starting quarterback and these receivers will be pivotal in developing a potent passing attack.
4. Offensive Line: Keeping the Trenches Strong
Georgia’s offensive line has been a key factor in the program’s recent success, and that will not change in 2025. However, with several key players leaving for the NFL, including center Sedrick Van Pran, spring practice is an opportunity for the offensive line to solidify its cohesion and depth.
Key Players to Watch:
- Amarius Mims: Mims is one of the most talented linemen in the nation, and he is expected to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft in the near future. His leadership and ability to anchor the right tackle position will be a big part of Georgia’s success up front.
- Tate Ratledge: Ratledge is another experienced and versatile lineman who will be key to Georgia’s blocking schemes.
- Chad Lindberg: Lindberg is expected to step into a starting role after solid performances in backup duty over the past seasons. His development could be crucial in filling the void left by the departed starters.
The offensive line will also be tasked with integrating a new center and building chemistry to ensure that the running game remains as dominant as ever. Watch for intense competition during spring practice to establish the starting five.
5. Defensive Line: Reloading After Big Losses
Georgia’s defense has long been one of the most feared units in college football, but as with any elite program, there are always players leaving for the NFL. This year, the Bulldogs are losing several key pieces on the defensive line, including Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith, both of whom were critical in Georgia’s success. Spring practice will be pivotal for replenishing depth and finding replacements who can step up in 2025.
Key Players to Watch:
- Mikel Williams: Williams emerged as one of the best pass-rushers in the SEC as a freshman. His development will be one of the most exciting storylines, as he could become Georgia’s next dominant edge rusher.
- Jalon Walker: Walker’s versatility will allow him to play both inside and outside, but he’ll likely focus on the defensive line in 2025. His athleticism and quickness will make him a key player in the trenches.
- Bear Alexander: Alexander, a highly recruited defensive lineman, has the size and strength to dominate the line of scrimmage. He’ll need to step up as one of Georgia’s top defensive threats.
Georgia’s defensive line will have big shoes to fill, but with smart recruiting and player development, it’s unlikely the Bulldogs will experience a significant drop-off. Spring practice will give the coaches a chance to experiment with different lineups and rotations.
6. Linebackers: Stepping into Leadership Roles
Georgia has long had a reputation for producing elite linebackers, and this spring, there are several players ready to step into key leadership roles. With stars like Nolan Smith and Travon Walker now in the NFL, Georgia’s linebacker group will be tasked with taking on more responsibility this season.
Key Players to Watch:
- Smael Mondon: Mondon is poised to be the next great linebacker for Georgia. He’s fast, physical, and intelligent—traits that will make him a centerpiece of the defense.
- Jamon Dumas-Johnson: Dumas-Johnson was a standout last season and is expected to continue growing into a key role. His ability to read plays and stay disciplined will be invaluable.
Spring practice will be a crucial time for Mondon, Dumas-Johnson, and others to develop their leadership and ensure the defense remains as dominant as it has been in recent years.
7. Secondary: Reloading with Talent
Georgia’s secondary will also see some changes, but there’s no shortage of talent. The Bulldogs’ defensive backs will have the opportunity to develop into one of the most feared units in college football.
Key Players to Watch:
- Kelee Ringo: Ringo has been a standout cornerback for Georgia and will be looking to prove he’s ready for an NFL future. His development will be a key focus during the spring.
- Malaki Starks: Starks was a standout in his freshman season and is poised for an even bigger role in 2025. His ability to cover ground and make plays on the ball will be essential.
- Javon Bullard: Bullard’s versatility and ability to play both cornerback and safety will make him one of the most valuable players in the secondary.
The spring will be critical for developing depth in the secondary and finding consistent playmakers who can shut down opposing offenses.