Georgia Bulldogs Land Another Defensive Star as Four-Star Lineman Preston Carey Commits to Kirby Smart’s 2025 Recruiting Class
The Georgia Bulldogs have done it again. With a reputation for stacking elite talent on both sides of the ball—particularly on defense—Kirby Smart and his staff added another formidable piece to their already impressive 2025 recruiting class. Four-star defensive lineman Preston Carey, one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in the country, has officially committed to Georgia, giving the Bulldogs yet another reason to believe that their defensive dominance in the SEC and beyond is far from over.
Carey, who hails from the football-rich state of Texas, had been on the radar of virtually every major Power Five program. With offers from Alabama, Texas, LSU, Ohio State, Florida State, and USC, Carey had his pick of the litter. But after months of visits, evaluations, and deep discussions with coaches and family, he made the decision to pledge to Georgia—a program known for producing elite NFL-ready defensive linemen and building championship-caliber defenses.
The 6-foot-4, 275-pound lineman ranks among the top 10 defensive linemen in the nation according to most major recruiting services and is widely viewed as a player who could make an immediate impact at the college level. His blend of size, strength, and explosiveness off the line of scrimmage has made him a nightmare for offensive linemen at the high school level, and scouts believe his skill set will only continue to develop under the guidance of Georgia’s defensive staff.
Kirby Smart, who has built a reputation as one of the best recruiters in the country, was instrumental in landing Carey. The Bulldogs’ defensive line coach, Tray Scott, also played a key role, forming a close bond with Carey throughout the recruiting process. It was that relationship, coupled with Georgia’s unmatched development track record and scheme fit, that ultimately swayed Carey to Athens.
Carey’s commitment adds significant value to Georgia’s already top-ranked 2025 recruiting class. His presence further bolsters a defensive line group that has seen consistent turnover due to NFL Draft declarations over the past several years. With names like Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Devonte Wyatt having passed through the program, Carey steps into a lineage that is well established and full of high expectations. But by all accounts, he’s more than ready to embrace the challenge.
In speaking about his commitment, Carey was clear about why Georgia stood out.
“Georgia felt like home,” he said. “Coach Smart and Coach Scott made me feel like I was already part of the family. It’s not just about football there—they care about developing you as a man. But on the field, they’re building monsters. I want to be part of that.”
The decision was not made lightly. Carey took several official visits, including trips to Alabama, Texas, and LSU. Each program made a strong push, emphasizing both immediate playing time and long-term development. However, Georgia’s consistent presence, along with their ability to show Carey precisely how he would be used in their system, tipped the scales.
In Georgia’s defensive scheme, Carey projects as a versatile interior lineman capable of playing in both odd and even fronts. His power and quickness allow him to anchor against the run, while his burst off the snap makes him a valuable pass-rushing asset from the interior. Coaches view him as a player who can eventually become a three-down contributor—a rare commodity in college football.
Beyond the on-field impact, Carey’s commitment has ripple effects in the recruiting landscape. With several top defensive prospects still uncommitted, Georgia’s success with Carey sends a strong message. It reinforces the idea that Athens is a destination for elite defenders who want to compete for championships and prepare for the NFL. It also keeps the Bulldogs ahead of recruiting rivals Alabama and Texas, who both had Carey high on their boards.
The commitment also speaks to the broader trend of Georgia’s national recruiting footprint. While the Bulldogs have always recruited the Southeast well, they’ve increasingly pulled top talent from Texas, California, and even the Midwest. Carey’s commitment represents yet another example of Georgia’s ability to compete with any program, anywhere, for elite players.
Preston Carey’s high school coach, who has watched his star pupil blossom into a dominant force, believes Georgia is getting something special.
“Preston’s one of those rare kids who combines size, athleticism, and intelligence,” the coach said. “But what sets him apart is his motor. He never takes a play off, and he’s always trying to learn. Georgia is going to get a leader, a competitor, and someone who’s going to make an impact from day one.”
Indeed, Carey’s relentless work ethic is one of the main reasons so many schools pursued him aggressively. He’s known for spending extra hours in the film room, consistently working on his technique, and holding himself to a standard few high school players achieve. It’s no surprise that he was named a captain during his junior season, a rarity at his powerhouse Texas high school.
With Carey now officially on board, attention turns to what his presence might mean for other top recruits. Often, a high-profile commitment can act as a catalyst, encouraging other top targets to join the movement. Carey has already expressed his willingness to help recruit for Georgia, reaching out to fellow defensive line targets and others to join him in Athens.
“We’re building something special,” Carey said. “I want to play with the best. Iron sharpens iron, and there’s no place like Georgia to make that happen.”
Georgia’s defensive identity has been a key ingredient in its recent run of success. In the past few seasons, the Bulldogs have produced several elite defenses, often ranking among the best in the country in scoring defense, total defense, and sacks. Carey fits the mold of the kind of player who can keep that tradition alive—and perhaps even elevate it.
In the broader scope of the 2025 class, Carey is now one of the crown jewels. His commitment gives the Bulldogs yet another top-100 player, and he joins a group of defenders that includes blue-chip linebackers and defensive backs. Georgia continues to build from the inside out, and with Carey anchoring the future front line, the Bulldogs appear well positioned to remain a national powerhouse well into the next decade.
For fans in Athens, Carey’s commitment is reason to celebrate. He brings with him not only elite physical tools but also the kind of leadership and maturity that programs crave. With national championships now a realistic expectation every year under Kirby Smart, adding players like Carey is exactly how Georgia intends to stay on top.
The path to college stardom is never easy, but Carey appears ready for what lies ahead. His choice to join the Bulldogs is a major win for Georgia and a clear indication that the program’s momentum on the recruiting trail shows no signs of slowing down.
As the 2025 class takes shape, it’s clear that Georgia is once again building something formidable. With Preston Carey now committed, the Bulldogs have taken one giant step closer to securing another elite defensive unit—and potentially, another national title run.
