Dawgs Dominate the Draft: Tracking the Georgia Bulldogs’ Selections in the 2025 NFL Draft
The University of Georgia football program has once again proven its prowess in developing top-tier talent, as evidenced by the strong showing of former Bulldogs in the 2025 National Football League (NFL) Draft. Held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 24th to April 26th, the annual selection meeting has already seen several prominent Georgia players hear their names called, fulfilling lifelong dreams and embarking on their professional careers.
The first round of the draft, conducted on Thursday, April 24th, witnessed three standout defensive players from the University of Georgia being selected among the top 32 picks. This continues a trend of Georgia producing high-caliber defensive talent, a hallmark of Coach Kirby Smart’s successful tenure.
The first Bulldog off the board was Mykel Williams, a dominant defensive end who was picked 11th overall by the San Francisco 49ers. Williams, known for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities and disruptive presence on the defensive line, is expected to make an immediate impact on the 49ers’ defense. His selection marks another in a line of highly drafted defensive linemen from Georgia, showcasing the program’s strength in developing players at this crucial position.
Following Williams, Jalon Walker, a versatile linebacker and edge rusher, was selected 15th overall by the Atlanta Falcons. This pick was particularly exciting for Falcons fans as Walker becomes the first-ever Georgia Bulldog to be drafted in the first round by the franchise. Walker’s athleticism, physicality, and ability to play multiple roles on defense have drawn comparisons to elite NFL linebackers, and his addition is anticipated to significantly bolster the Falcons’ defensive unit. Playing professionally in his home state will undoubtedly add an extra layer of motivation for the Butkus Award winner.
Rounding out the first-round selections for Georgia was Malaki Starks, a highly touted safety who was picked 27th overall by the Baltimore Ravens. Starks, known for his exceptional coverage skills, ball-hawking instincts, and physical presence in the secondary, is considered one of the top safety prospects in the draft. His selection marks a significant milestone as he becomes the highest-drafted defensive back coached by Kirby Smart, surpassing Eric Stokes’ selection in 2021. Starks will join former Bulldog linebacker Roquan Smith in Baltimore, providing the Ravens with a dynamic and talented player in their defensive backfield.
These three first-round selections underscore the continued success of the Georgia football program under Kirby Smart in producing elite NFL-ready talent. This marks the fourth NFL draft during Smart’s tenure where the Bulldogs have had at least three first-round picks, a testament to the program’s consistent excellence in recruiting and player development. Since the 2022 NFL Draft, Georgia has had the most first-round selections of any college program, further solidifying its status as a breeding ground for NFL stars.
As the draft progresses into the second and third rounds on Friday, April 25th, several other Georgia players are expected to hear their names called. Center Jared Wilson is widely considered one of the top center prospects in the draft and is likely to be selected on day two. Offensive guard Tate Ratledge is also projected to be drafted, potentially in the third round. Other Bulldogs who could be selected in the later rounds include running back Trevor Etienne, linebackers Smael Mondon and Chaz Chambliss, offensive linemen Dylan Fairchild and Xavier Truss, defensive linemen Nazir Stackhouse and Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, and defensive back Dan Jackson. Wide receivers Arian Smith and Dominic Lovett also have the potential to be drafted based on their athletic abilities and special teams contributions.
Historically, the Georgia Bulldogs have a rich tradition of sending players to the NFL. Since the first NFL draft in 1936, over 370 Georgia players have been selected, contributing to various franchises across the league. The program has also produced five No. 1 overall draft picks: Frank Sinkwich (1943), Charley Trippi (1945), Harry Babcock (1953), Matthew Stafford (2009), and Travon Walker (2022). Under Kirby Smart, the number of first-round picks has significantly increased, highlighting the program’s recent dominance in producing top-tier talent.
The 2025 NFL Draft, hosted in the iconic Lambeau Field and the adjacent Titletown District in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a three-day event that allows all 32 NFL teams to select eligible college football players. The draft consists of seven rounds, with teams selecting in an order determined by their regular-season record from the previous year. The Tennessee Titans held the first overall pick in this year’s draft.
The success of former Georgia players in the NFL not only benefits the individuals but also enhances the reputation of the University of Georgia football program, aiding in recruiting efforts and further solidifying its place among the elite college football programs in the nation. The 2025 NFL Draft is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent within the Georgia program, and fans eagerly await to see how many more Bulldogs will join the professional ranks in the remaining rounds.
