As Super Bowl 59 approaches, NFL fans eagerly anticipate seeing some of the league’s best players on the biggest stage. Among the top contenders, many former Georgia Bulldogs stand out as potential game-changers. With a legacy of developing top-tier talent under coach Kirby Smart, the University of Georgia has seen its players dominate both in college and at the professional level. In this article, we’ll rank the Georgia Bulldogs who could have the most significant impact during the Super Bowl, taking into account their current form, roles on their respective teams, and potential to influence the game.
When discussing impact players, one of the first names that comes to mind is George Pickens. The wide receiver’s remarkable ability to make contested catches and stretch the field makes him an explosive option in Pittsburgh’s offense. Pickens’ strong showing in his rookie season cemented his reputation as one of the most promising wideouts in the league. He has a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism, which could make him a key factor in a Super Bowl appearance.
Pickens’ high points include his ability to win in tight coverage and make plays on deep balls, which would be vital in a Super Bowl, where big plays often change the course of the game. If the Steelers make it to the Super Bowl, Pickens will likely be one of the primary targets in critical situations. His ability to create separation from defenders and come through in clutch moments could make him a household name by the end of the game.
Roquan Smith, the dynamic linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, has been an anchor for their defense since his arrival. Known for his incredible range, tackling ability, and intelligence on the field, Smith is the kind of player who can make an impact all over the field. His ability to read plays and cover ground quickly makes him a disruptive force, and in a high-pressure Super Bowl game, his leadership in the middle of the defense could be invaluable.
Smith’s presence in the middle of the defense is crucial against both the run and the pass. His ability to cover tight ends and running backs in passing situations, combined with his aggressive tackling style, could swing momentum in Baltimore’s favor. If the Ravens reach Super Bowl 59, expect Roquan Smith to be at the center of the action, making critical tackles and potentially forcing turnovers at key moments.
3. Javon Bullard (S, Georgia Bulldogs)
While Javon Bullard is still early in his NFL journey, his performance at Georgia’s secondary was nothing short of spectacular. His hard-hitting and smart playstyle made him one of the most feared defenders in college football, and there’s every reason to believe that Bullard’s skillset will translate well in the professional game. As a safety, Bullard has the ability to read quarterbacks’ eyes and break up passes, and his physicality makes him a formidable player when it comes to tackling in the open field.
In a Super Bowl, Bullard’s ability to turn the tide with a key interception or a bone-jarring tackle could be game-changing. As teams prepare to face dynamic quarterbacks and skilled wide receivers, a safety like Bullard, who can impact both the pass and the run, will be invaluable. Expect him to be in the mix for a crucial turnover or game-saving play when it matters most.
Jordan Davis has quickly made a name for himself in the NFL as one of the most dominant interior defensive linemen. At 6’6″ and over 340 pounds, Davis possesses an extraordinary combination of size and athleticism that allows him to overpower offensive linemen and disrupt the quarterback’s pocket. His role with the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense is crucial, as he serves as the anchor of their defensive front, and his ability to clog up running lanes while generating pressure on the quarterback could be vital in the Super Bowl.
The defensive line often dictates the pace of a game, and Davis’ presence in the middle could make it challenging for the opposing offense to establish any rhythm. If the Eagles reach the Super Bowl, Davis’ ability to stuff the run and collapse the pocket will be key in neutralizing the opposing offense, especially against high-powered quarterbacks. His sheer strength and agility give him a chance to dominate at the line of scrimmage, possibly tipping the scales in favor of Philadelphia.
DeAndre Swift, the versatile running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, is an elite playmaker capable of influencing the game in multiple ways. Whether he’s running between the tackles or catching passes out of the backfield, Swift’s explosiveness is a key asset to the Eagles’ offense. His speed and ability to break tackles make him a dangerous weapon, and his ability to turn short gains into big plays is invaluable in a Super Bowl, where every yard counts.
In high-stakes games, a running back like Swift, who can both rush for significant yardage and contribute in the passing game, is a critical component of offensive success. His ability to provide balance and take pressure off the quarterback makes him one of the most impactful players on the field. If the Eagles are to hoist the Lombardi Trophy, Swift’s performance in the running game and his ability to catch passes out of the backfield will be pivotal to their success.
Nakobe Dean is another Georgia Bulldog who could have a tremendous impact in Super Bowl 59. His cerebral play and leadership on the field were standout traits during his college career, and his transition to the NFL has been equally impressive. As a linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles, Dean excels at reading offenses and making timely tackles. His ability to cover tight ends, disrupt passing lanes, and stuff the run makes him a versatile and valuable asset to the Eagles’ defense.
In the high-pressure environment of a Super Bowl, Dean’s football IQ and ability to make adjustments on the fly could be a major asset. His knack for making key stops in crucial situations and his experience in big games at Georgia should help him handle the intensity of the biggest game of the year. If Dean can continue his high level of play, he could become a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defensive effort.
Lewis Cine is one of the top young safeties in the NFL and has already shown flashes of brilliance in his young career with the Minnesota Vikings. His ability to make plays on the ball, combined with his physicality in run support, makes him a promising player in the defensive backfield. Cine’s football instincts and leadership in the secondary could be crucial in Super Bowl 59, where making big stops in passing situations often determines the outcome.
Cine’s role in the Super Bowl could be as a disruptor, whether by forcing turnovers, breaking up passes, or coming up with a game-changing tackle. His experience in high-stakes college games, particularly with Georgia, will serve him well in the Super Bowl, where every play could be the difference between victory and defeat.
8. Trayvon Walker (OLB, Jacksonville Jaguars)
Trayvon Walker, the first overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, brings a powerful presence to the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense. Known for his explosiveness and versatility, Walker is capable of lining up as both an edge rusher and a linebacker, making him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks and offensive lines. His physicality, combined with his growing pass-rush skills, could make him a key player in any Super Bowl appearance.
If Walker can continue to develop into a dominant force, he has the potential to be a game-changer. His combination of speed and strength can lead to disruptive plays, whether he’s pressuring the quarterback or stopping the run. Jacksonville’s defense will rely on Walker’s ability to create chaos and make plays that swing the momentum in their favor.
A.J. Green is a seasoned veteran with an impressive career, but his experience and leadership can still be pivotal for the Arizona Cardinals in the Super Bowl. As a cornerback, Green’s ability to lock down top receivers and create turnovers will be critical if his team is to make a deep playoff run. Though his best years may be behind him, Green’s high football IQ and physicality make him a valuable asset in key situations.
In a Super Bowl, Green could have a major impact by limiting opposing wide receivers and playing physical football. His ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and anticipate passes could allow him to make game-changing plays in critical moments. The experience he brings to the field, particularly in high-pressure games, could be invaluable.
Though Milton’s draft prospects may still be developing, his potential is undeniable. As a running back, his physical running style, combined with impressive agility and vision, could be a huge asset in the NFL. If Milton can refine his skills and transition to the professional game, he could provide a valuable depth option in the Super Bowl. His balance and ability to gain tough yards will be crucial in closing out games and establishing offensive dominance.
While it may take a few more seasons for Milton to make a lasting Super Bowl impact, his ability to break tackles and gain tough yards will certainly make him a player to watch in the coming years.
As Super Bowl 59 nears, the Georgia Bulldogs’ alumni will be among the most influential players on the field. From explosive wide receivers to dominant linebackers and game-changing safeties, Georgia’s impact in the NFL is undeniable. The players listed here have the potential to shape the outcome of the biggest game of the year, making their mark in ways that will be remembered long after the final whistle.
