Five Georgia Bulldogs Have a Message from Kirby Smart
In the world of college football, the Georgia Bulldogs have established themselves as a dominant force under the leadership of head coach Kirby Smart. Year after year, Smart molds top-tier athletes into elite competitors, instilling discipline, perseverance, and a championship mindset. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, five former Bulldogs—each a standout in their own right—have received a crucial message from Smart as they transition to the next phase of their careers.
The Five Bulldogs in Focus
This year, five Georgia Bulldogs have attracted attention from NFL scouts and fans alike. These players, all pivotal to Georgia’s recent success, now face the opportunity to prove themselves at the highest level. They include:
- Brock Bowers (Tight End) – A powerhouse on the field, Bowers has been one of the most explosive and reliable offensive weapons in college football. His ability to block, run routes, and make contested catches makes him a top-tier NFL prospect.
- Sedrick Van Pran (Center) – The anchor of Georgia’s offensive line, Van Pran provided consistency and leadership throughout his college career. His intelligence, technique, and physicality position him as one of the best centers in this draft class.
- Jamon Dumas-Johnson (Linebacker) – A defensive force, Dumas-Johnson has been an integral part of Georgia’s dominant defense. His ability to read plays, make tackles, and disrupt offenses makes him a highly valued linebacker prospect.
- Kelee Ringo (Cornerback) – Known for his speed and ball-hawking skills, Ringo has been a key figure in Georgia’s secondary. His ability to match up with elite receivers and create turnovers makes him a prime candidate for NFL teams seeking a playmaking cornerback.
- Zion Logue (Defensive Tackle) – A powerful presence in the trenches, Logue has played a crucial role in Georgia’s defensive success. His ability to clog running lanes and put pressure on quarterbacks gives him significant upside at the next level.
Kirby Smart’s Message to His Former Players
As these five Bulldogs prepare for the NFL Draft, Kirby Smart has emphasized a few key principles that have guided them throughout their time at Georgia. His message is clear:
- Stay Disciplined and Hungry – Smart always preaches that success is never final. While these players have excelled at the college level, the NFL presents a new challenge, requiring even greater discipline and commitment.
- Embrace the Process – Smart has instilled in his players the idea that true greatness is achieved through relentless preparation. From film study to workouts, he urges them to embrace every aspect of the professional transition.
- Character Matters – One of the hallmarks of Smart’s coaching philosophy is the belief that talent alone is not enough. He emphasizes integrity, teamwork, and accountability as key factors in a player’s long-term success.
- Represent the Bulldog Standard – Smart reminds his players that they carry the legacy of Georgia football with them. Whether in an NFL training camp or on the field, they are representatives of a championship culture.
The Road to the NFL
For these five Bulldogs, the journey to the NFL will be challenging but rewarding. The Senior Bowl, NFL Combine, and individual team workouts will provide opportunities to showcase their talents. Their draft stock will rise and fall based on their performances, but one thing remains certain—Kirby Smart’s impact on their careers will continue to shape their success.
As they step into the professional realm, these players will undoubtedly carry with them the lessons learned at Georgia. Whether it’s Bowers making game-changing catches, Ringo locking down receivers, or Van Pran commanding an offensive line, they will embody the toughness and excellence that define Bulldogs football.
The NFL awaits, and with Smart’s guidance and the foundation built at Georgia, these five players are ready to take the next step.