Three Georgia Bulldogs selected in first-round of USA TODAY mock draft
USA TODAY’s Nate Davis released another first-round mock draft for the 2025 NFL draft featuring three Georgia Bulldogs selected, with two going in the top half of the draft. All of them are going to teams that have either been mocked to take Georgia Bulldogs several times or teams that already have a lot of Georgia Bulldogs.
In this mock draft, Georgia is tied with Michigan for most players predicted to be first-round selections. If the Bulldogs were able to get three players drafted in the first round, that would make 20 total first rounders in the Kirby Smart era.
No. 8: Jalon Walker, LB, Carolina Panthers
Dec 7, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Jalon Walker (11) reacts after defeating the Texas Longhorns in overtime in the 2024 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Davis’ draft is far from the only draft that’s predicted Jalon Walker to land with the Carolina Panthers. It’s very easy to see why he’d be a good fit.
The Panthers have a lot of holes on their defense and Jalon Walker is arguably the most versatile player Georgia has to offer. He’s good against the run, solid in coverage, but most impactful as a pass rusher, which is something that Carolina also desperately needs. Walker is a versatile linebacker that is very lanky and quick to the quarterback.No. 13: Malaki Starks, S, Miami Dolphins
Dec 7, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs defensive back Malaki Starks (24) practices before the 2024 SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Brett Davis-Imagn Images
The Miami Dolphins could definitely use some secondary help after All-Pro safety Jevon Holland left in free agency to sign with the Giants. Enter Malaki Starks. Starks, like Walker, is also versatile, with experience as both ball-hawking safety and nickel corner.
His time as a nickel was a mixed bag, but just the experience alone is valuable. Also, he was one of the best ball-hawking safeties in the country with Georgia, nearly earning the Jim Thorpe award for his efforts. Many people have compared him to Jessie Bates and Minkah Fitzpatrick, and the Dolphins are missing the presence of an elite safety.
