
Ranking the Georgia Bulldogs Most Likely to Make an Impact in Super Bowl 59
As Super Bowl 59 approaches, NFL fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the clash of titans on the biggest stage in American sports. While the two teams battling for the Lombardi Trophy will certainly draw the most attention, there is also a growing anticipation around the notable players with college football roots that will take to the field in this championship showdown. In particular, Georgia Bulldogs fans will be keeping a close eye on the several former Georgia stars who have made their marks in the NFL and now have the opportunity to showcase their talents in the Super Bowl.
From offensive playmakers to defensive standouts, Georgia’s football program has become a hotbed for NFL talent over the past decade. Several Bulldogs have become household names in the professional ranks, and their performance on Super Bowl Sunday could very well make a difference in the outcome of the game. Below, we take a deep dive into which Georgia alumni are most likely to have the most significant impact in Super Bowl 59, ranking them from the most to least likely to leave their mark on the biggest stage of the year.
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Jalen Carter (Defensive Tackle, Philadelphia Eagles)
Perhaps the most anticipated Bulldog in Super Bowl 59 is Jalen Carter, the dominant defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles. Carter’s name has become synonymous with defensive excellence, and he has been one of the most disruptive forces in the NFL this season. During his time at Georgia, Carter was an absolute game-changer for the Bulldogs, earning numerous accolades and playing a key role in Georgia’s national championships in 2021 and 2022.
Carter’s ability to collapse the pocket, stop the run, and create chaos in the backfield has carried over into his NFL career. In Super Bowl 59, he will likely face some of the best offensive linemen the league has to offer, but given his explosiveness and strength, Carter is more than capable of making a significant impact. Whether it’s getting after the quarterback or clogging running lanes, Jalen Carter has the potential to be a game-wrecking presence on defense, and his performance will be a key factor in Philadelphia’s chances of winning the title.
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Jordan Davis (Defensive Tackle, Philadelphia Eagles)
Following closely behind Carter is another former Bulldog defensive tackle, Jordan Davis. While Davis may not have received the same level of national attention as Carter in his rookie year, his presence in the middle of the Eagles’ defense cannot be overlooked. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 340 pounds, Davis is an immovable force against the run and a powerful asset in pass-rush situations.
Davis has proven his ability to occupy blockers, freeing up other pass-rushers, while also showcasing his surprising agility for his size. In a game as important as the Super Bowl, where every play counts, Davis’ ability to disrupt the opposing offense will be crucial. Whether he’s clogging up running lanes or drawing double-teams, Jordan Davis is set to play a vital role in helping the Eagles’ defense control the line of scrimmage, and his impact will be felt in both the run game and the passing game.
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Deandre Swift (Running Back, Philadelphia Eagles)
While the defensive front for the Eagles will steal much of the spotlight, another Georgia Bulldog making waves in the Super Bowl is running back DeAndre Swift. Swift, who played at Georgia from 2017 to 2019, has established himself as a dynamic playmaker in the NFL with the Eagles. Known for his vision, speed, and ability to break tackles, Swift has become a reliable option in Philadelphia’s explosive offensive system.
Swift’s versatility as both a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield makes him a dual threat that opposing defenses must account for. In a game like the Super Bowl, where controlling the clock and creating balanced offensive production is key, Swift’s ability to move the ball and change the tempo of the game will be crucial. Whether it’s with his speed on outside runs or his reliability in short-yardage situations, Swift has the skill set to be a difference-maker in the biggest game of his career.
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Richard LeCounte (Safety, Cleveland Browns)
Although LeCounte is not playing in Super Bowl 59, he’s worth mentioning in the context of the Bulldogs’ impact on the game. LeCounte was a key figure in Georgia’s secondary during their 2020 National Championship campaign. A versatile safety who could make plays in both the pass and run games, LeCounte was known for his playmaking ability and leadership.
In the NFL, LeCounte has continued to display those same qualities, emerging as a key special teams player for the Cleveland Browns. While he may not be on the field in the Super Bowl itself, his continued development in the NFL serves as a reminder of the caliber of talent that Georgia continues to produce, and his success will undoubtedly inspire other Bulldogs making their Super Bowl debuts.
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Trayvon Walker (Defensive End, Jacksonville Jaguars)
Trayvon Walker, a former No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, is a standout defender who made his name with the Georgia Bulldogs as a key part of their national championship defense. While Walker’s team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, is not participating in this year’s Super Bowl, he remains one of the most promising defensive prospects in the league. Known for his athleticism, length, and ability to get after the quarterback, Walker’s potential is evident, and his future in the league remains bright.
Despite not being part of the Super Bowl 59 showdown, Walker’s development continues to be part of the conversation when discussing Georgia Bulldogs in the NFL. His continued rise could ultimately lead to more Bulldogs in future Super Bowls, including a potential opportunity for him to showcase his skills in one of the league’s premier events down the road.
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Nakobe Dean (Linebacker, Philadelphia Eagles)
Another former Georgia player that has made an impact for the Philadelphia Eagles is linebacker Nakobe Dean. Dean was the heart and soul of Georgia’s defense during their 2021 national championship run, where he displayed leadership, football IQ, and the ability to disrupt the opposition with his instinctual play. Now, as a key backup linebacker for the Eagles, Dean’s role may not be as prominent in terms of snaps, but his leadership and ability to contribute in big moments make him an important asset.
Dean’s versatility allows him to play multiple linebacker positions, and his ability to read plays quickly and react under pressure could be crucial in limiting the opposing offense during the Super Bowl. While his contribution may come in spurts, Dean is a player capable of stepping up when his number is called, and his impact in critical moments could be one of the understated storylines in Super Bowl 59.
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D’Andre Swift (Running Back, Philadelphia Eagles)
D’Andre Swift has had a standout season for the Eagles and has been one of the top producers on the offensive side of the ball. Playing alongside Jalen Hurts, Swift has provided a solid balance for the team in the ground game while also being a threat as a receiving option out of the backfield. Swift’s proven ability to get into space and make defenders miss could be crucial for the Eagles, especially with the type of defensive fronts he’ll likely face in the Super Bowl. Whether as a rusher or a pass catcher, his explosive ability will be key to the team’s offensive success.
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George Pickens (Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh Steelers)
Another Bulldog alumni who has a bright future in the NFL is George Pickens. Known for his highlight-reel catches and ability to separate from defenders, Pickens is slowly becoming one of the top young receivers in the league. Although the Steelers will not be competing in Super Bowl 59, Pickens’ future is certainly bright, and he will be looking for future opportunities to compete on the biggest stage. His physicality, ability to make acrobatic catches, and knack for winning one-on-one matchups makes him a dangerous receiver in the NFL, and one that could help lead Pittsburgh to future playoff runs.
As Super Bowl 59 draws nearer, all eyes will be on Georgia Bulldogs alumni who are part of the big game, particularly those representing the Philadelphia Eagles. With standout players like Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and DeAndre Swift leading the charge, the Bulldogs’ legacy in the NFL continues to grow. These players have the talent and the opportunity to leave an indelible mark on the championship game, adding to the ever-growing reputation of Georgia as a breeding ground for NFL stars.
Whether it’s Carter’s dominance in the trenches, Swift’s explosiveness on offense, or the defensive contributions from Davis and LeCounte, former Bulldogs are well-positioned to make significant impacts in the Super Bowl. As the game unfolds, it’s clear that Georgia’s presence in the NFL will continue to be felt, and Bulldogs fans will be watching closely as their former stars try to bring home a Super Bowl title.