The University of Georgia will have a bunch of players drafted, so Taylor Doll spoke with Mike Griffith, who covers the Bulldogs for UGA DawgNation, about their top prospects, including Mykel Williams, Tate Ratledge, Dylan Fairchild, and more
As the NFL Draft draws near, the University of Georgia (UGA) continues to make waves as one of the most prominent football programs in the nation. Under the leadership of head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have produced a wealth of talent, and this year is no exception. With multiple players projected to be drafted, the University of Georgia’s football program is ready to send another batch of athletes to the NFL.
To dive deeper into UGA’s top draft prospects, Taylor Doll spoke with Mike Griffith, who covers the Bulldogs for DawgNation. Griffith, an expert in Georgia football, provided insights into the talent pool emerging from Athens, shedding light on players like Mykel Williams, Tate Ratledge, Dylan Fairchild, and others. Let’s break down the conversation and explore the prospects of these future NFL players.
Mykel Williams: A Rising Star
One of the most highly anticipated draft prospects from UGA is Mykel Williams, a defensive standout who has garnered attention for his incredible skill set and versatility. Griffith noted that Williams is a player with high upside, both as a pass rusher and in his ability to disrupt offensive schemes.
“Mykel Williams has a great combination of size, speed, and athleticism,” Griffith said. “At his size, he moves well laterally, which makes him an excellent pass rusher. But more than that, he has the instincts to play against the run and offer flexibility in different defensive schemes.”
Williams’ versatility is one of his most impressive traits. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing over 270 pounds, Williams has the physical tools to dominate on the defensive line. However, what sets him apart from other prospects is his ability to play multiple positions and his capacity to adapt to various defensive schemes. Whether lined up as a defensive end or as a 3-4 outside linebacker, Williams has the motor and awareness to affect the game.
In his time at Georgia, Williams was known for his ability to read opposing offenses and disrupt plays before they could develop. As he prepares for the NFL, teams are eager to see how his skills translate to the next level. Griffith emphasized that Williams’ combination of size, strength, and intelligence makes him a potential first-round pick, and he could become a key player for whichever NFL team selects him.
Tate Ratledge: Dominating the Offensive Line
While much of the draft attention in Georgia’s program has focused on the defensive side of the ball, the Bulldogs also boast a strong crop of offensive talent. Tate Ratledge, an offensive guard, is one of those players who has caught the attention of scouts. According to Griffith, Ratledge is a player who embodies the physicality and strength needed to succeed in the NFL.
“Tate Ratledge is an absolute mauler on the offensive line,” Griffith commented. “He has incredible strength and a tenacious attitude. When you watch him on tape, he has the ability to clear lanes in the running game, and he’s tough to move in pass protection. He’s just a solid, foundational player.”
Ratledge, who stands at 6’6″ and weighs around 320 pounds, is known for his size and brute strength. He has been a cornerstone for Georgia’s offensive line, providing both stability and physicality. His ability to dominate defenders in both the running and passing games has drawn comparisons to some of the best interior linemen in the NFL.
As an offensive guard, Ratledge’s ability to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage has been critical to Georgia’s success in the running game. Griffith noted that NFL teams will likely look to him as a plug-and-play starter on the interior offensive line. His combination of strength, size, and technical skill make him an attractive prospect for teams looking to shore up their offensive line.
Dylan Fairchild: A Reliable Force on the Line
Another offensive lineman from Georgia who is expected to hear his name called in the NFL Draft is Dylan Fairchild. Like Ratledge, Fairchild has been a steady presence on the Bulldogs’ offensive line, providing both leadership and dependability. Griffith spoke highly of Fairchild’s consistency and ability to play at a high level, week in and week out.
“Dylan Fairchild might not have the same athleticism as some of the other top offensive line prospects, but what he has is reliability and toughness,” Griffith said. “He’s the type of player who will do his job, no matter the opponent, and that’s something NFL teams love.”
Fairchild’s approach to the game is grounded in his consistency. Unlike some players who rely solely on raw athleticism, Fairchild has built his career on strong fundamentals and mental toughness. His ability to understand defensive alignments and adjust accordingly has helped him maintain a high level of play throughout his college career.
Griffith pointed out that Fairchild’s physicality and strong technique make him an ideal fit for a team that emphasizes a balanced, power-running game. He’s also versatile enough to play multiple positions on the offensive line, which increases his value for NFL teams that may want a player who can fill in at different spots when needed.
Jalen Carter: A Dominant Defensive Force
While Mykel Williams has received a lot of attention, Griffith also highlighted the impact of Jalen Carter, another defensive lineman who has been a standout player for Georgia. Carter, who played a key role in Georgia’s defensive success, is considered one of the most dominant interior defensive linemen in the upcoming draft.
“Jalen Carter is one of the most disruptive defensive players you’ll see in this draft,” Griffith said. “He has the ability to collapse the pocket, stop the run, and provide pressure in ways that few players can.”
Carter’s athleticism and power make him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. At 6’3″ and 310 pounds, he possesses the size to control the line of scrimmage, while his agility and quickness allow him to attack the quarterback. NFL teams that need a dynamic presence on their defensive line will likely view Carter as a top-tier prospect, with some even projecting him as a potential top-10 pick.
Griffith highlighted Carter’s tenacity and motor, pointing out that he doesn’t take plays off and constantly pursues the football. His work ethic and determination have earned him a reputation as one of the hardest-working players in college football, and NFL teams will be looking for that same level of commitment as he transitions to the pro level.
Nolan Smith: Speed and Agility at the Edge
Another name to watch in the upcoming draft is Nolan Smith, a linebacker/edge rusher for the Bulldogs. Smith has been an explosive player for Georgia’s defense, known for his speed, agility, and ability to rush the passer. According to Griffith, Smith’s natural ability to get to the quarterback sets him apart from other draft prospects.
“Nolan Smith is a player who thrives on the edge,” Griffith remarked. “His speed and ability to bend around the tackle make him an intriguing pass rusher. If he can continue to develop his technique, he has the potential to be a star at the next level.”
Smith’s explosiveness and motor make him a dangerous player in pass-rush situations. He excels at getting off the line of scrimmage quickly and has a relentless pursuit of the quarterback. With his high ceiling and raw athleticism, Smith is considered a potential first-round pick, and NFL teams will be excited to see how he develops in the coming years.
UGA’s Dominance Continues
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the University of Georgia is poised to send another group of talented athletes to the professional ranks. With players like Mykel Williams, Tate Ratledge, Dylan Fairchild, Jalen Carter, and Nolan Smith leading the charge, the Bulldogs continue to be a pipeline for top-tier talent. Mike Griffith’s insights provide a glimpse into the future of these players, many of whom could become household names in the NFL.
For UGA, this draft is a testament to the program’s success under Kirby Smart. The Bulldogs have established themselves as one of the premier football programs in the country, and their players continue to prove that Georgia is a place where top-tier talent is cultivated. As these young men transition to the next phase of their careers, their success in the NFL will only add to the legacy of Georgia football.
Whether they are dominating on the defensive line, protecting the quarterback, or rushing the passer, these draft prospects represent the future of the NFL, and UGA fans can be proud of the role they’ve played in shaping their careers. The future is bright for both the Bulldogs and the players ready to make their mark in the professional ranks.
