Smart’s Endorsement: A Testament to Legacy and Future Aspirations
The echoes of the NFL Draft have barely faded, yet the impact resonates deeply within the college football landscape, particularly in programs that have consistently produced top-tier talent. For the University of Georgia and its head coach, Kirby Smart, the 2025 NFL Draft served not only as a showcase of the program’s ability to develop elite players but also as an opportunity to reinforce the enduring bonds between coach and former athletes. In a heartfelt message reverberating across social media, Smart extended his support and well-wishes to former Bulldogs standout Mykel Williams, whose name was called early in the draft, signaling the commencement of his professional journey.
Williams, an imposing edge rusher who honed his skills under Smart’s tutelage for three impactful seasons in Athens, was selected with the No. 11 overall pick by the San Francisco 49ers. This significant achievement not only marked a personal milestone for Williams but also added another chapter to Georgia’s impressive NFL Draft legacy under Smart. Since taking the helm of the Bulldogs in 2016, Smart has overseen the development and subsequent drafting of a remarkable number of players, a testament to his and his staff’s prowess in both recruiting and player development. With Williams’ selection, Smart has now produced an astounding 20 first-round NFL Draft picks in his tenure at Georgia, a statistic that speaks volumes about the program’s sustained excellence.
Smart’s message to Williams, posted on social media platform X, was succinct yet powerful, encapsulating the pride and optimism that defines the coach’s relationship with his former players. “@MykelWilliams_!! The time has finally come,” Smart wrote. “You’re going to play for a long time, and we’re wishing you the best on this next great step in your journey. Can’t wait to see what you do with the @49ers & can’t wait to see you at the next level. GO DAWGS 1 !!” This public endorsement underscores the personal connection Smart fosters with his players, a connection that extends beyond their time in the collegiate ranks.
Mykel Williams’ journey to the NFL is a compelling narrative of potential realized through dedication and expert coaching. At 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds, Williams possesses the prototypical size and athleticism coveted by NFL teams for the defensive end position. Scouts have lauded his explosive athleticism, his ability to generate burst off the line of scrimmage, and his physical playing style. While acknowledging that he is still a developing talent with significant upside, his raw tools and the coaching he received at Georgia have positioned him for a promising career in the NFL. An NFL.com scouting report highlighted Williams as “an upside prospect with loads of traits,” noting his exceptional length and the need for more snaps to fully refine his game.
The San Francisco 49ers, a franchise with a storied history and recent Super Bowl aspirations, will be the beneficiary of Williams’ talents. Joining a team that is looking to bolster its defensive line, Williams has the potential to contribute as both a pass rusher and a run stopper, areas where the 49ers have sought improvement. The opportunity to learn and develop alongside established NFL players, potentially including All-Pro Nick Bosa, presents an invaluable environment for Williams to hone his craft and maximize his potential at the professional level.
Williams was not the only former Georgia Bulldog to hear his name called in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Linebacker Jalon Walker was selected by the Atlanta Falcons with the No. 15 overall pick, and defensive back Malaki Starks was chosen at No. 27 overall. Smart also extended his congratulations to these players via social media, highlighting their growth and leadership during their time at Georgia. The fact that three Bulldogs were selected in the first round further solidifies Georgia’s status as a breeding ground for NFL talent. This marks the fourth NFL Draft during Smart’s tenure in which Georgia has produced at least three first-round picks, a consistent trend that underscores the program’s ability to attract, develop, and send elite athletes to the professional ranks. Since the 2022 NFL Draft alone, Georgia has had an impressive 13 players selected in the first round, the most of any college football program during that span.
Kirby Smart’s coaching philosophy extends beyond the X’s and O’s of football. It is rooted in principles of physicality, toughness, and unwavering teamwork. He places a strong emphasis on building a dominant defense, a hallmark of his successful tenure at Georgia. Moreover, Smart is known for his ability to connect with his players, fostering a positive team culture that prioritizes both athletic and personal growth. His meticulous attention to detail and his capacity to make crucial in-game adjustments have earned him a reputation as one of the premier coaches in college football.
The success Georgia has experienced under Smart is intrinsically linked to the program’s recruiting prowess. Consistently ranking among the top recruiting classes in the nation, Smart and his staff have demonstrated an exceptional ability to identify and secure top-tier talent. This influx of high-potential athletes, coupled with the program’s commitment to player development, has created a pipeline of NFL-caliber players. The fact that Williams, Walker, and Starks were all top-50 recruits in the 2022 recruiting cycle and all became first-round draft picks after just three seasons at Georgia underscores the effectiveness of this approach.
The NFL Draft serves as a significant barometer of a college football program’s overall health and success. The number of players drafted, particularly those selected in the early rounds, is often cited alongside championships and win totals as a key indicator of program excellence. Historically, many of college football’s traditional powerhouses have consistently ranked high in the all-time lists of NFL Draft picks. Under Kirby Smart, Georgia has firmly established itself among these elite programs. The consistent production of high-level NFL talent not only enhances the program’s reputation but also aids in recruiting future generations of players who aspire to reach the professional ranks.
The impact of the NFL Draft extends beyond individual players and college programs. It shapes the landscape of the NFL itself, as teams infuse their rosters with fresh talent, hoping to find the next generation of stars. For college coaches like Kirby Smart, seeing their former players succeed at the highest level is a source of immense pride and a validation of their coaching methods and program philosophy. The messages of support and congratulations that Smart extends to his former players are not merely perfunctory; they reflect a genuine care for their well-being and a continued investment in their success, even after they have moved on to the professional arena. This commitment to his players, both past and present, is a cornerstone of Kirby Smart’s enduring impact on the University of Georgia football program and the broader football community.
