The Georgia Bulldogs: From Athens to the Big Leagues (With a Few Detours) - A Look at the 2023 NFL Draft Class
The 2023 NFL Draft was a smorgasbord of Georgia Bulldogs, with 10 talented players finding their way to new teams. It was like a UGA family reunion, only slightly less awkward and with way better snacks (hopefully).
So, who went where? Buckle up, because we're about to break it down like a Kirby Smart halftime speech (minus the existential dread, hopefully).
What Georgia Players Were Drafted 2023 |
The Early Birds: First Round Phenoms
Jalen Carter, DT (Philadelphia Eagles): This defensive force went 9th overall, and the Eagles are probably thanking their lucky stars. Carter's gonna be plugging holes in their line like nobody's business, assuming those holes aren't filled with cheesesteaks first.
Broderick Jones, OT (Pittsburgh Steelers): Pick number 14 for this offensive tackle. Big things are expected from Jones, like protecting whoever the Steelers decide to throw behind center next season (unless it's Mitch Trubisky, in which case, good luck, buddy).
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
Nolan Smith, OLB (Philadelphia Eagles): The Eagles went full-on Georgia defense by taking Smith at pick 30. Looks like they're going for that "championship team" vibe, minus the whole "playing other teams" part.
The Plot Thickens: Mid-Round Mayhem
Tyrique Stevenson, CB (Chicago Bears - Transferred from UGA): This talented cornerback landed with the Bears at pick 56. Fun fact: Stevenson can cover a receiver faster than you can say "Should I have gotten the Italian beef?"
Darnell Washington, TE (Pittsburgh Steelers): The Steelers snagged this athletic tight end at pick 93. Here's hoping he brings more touchdowns to Pittsburgh than Terrible Towels.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
Kelee Ringo, CB (Philadelphia Eagles - Again, Seriously?): The Eagles took another Georgia defender at pick 104. Maybe they just miss Athens, or maybe they REALLY like that Georgia defense.
The Late Risers: Patience is a Virtue (Unless You're Drafted Late)
Stetson Bennett, QB (Los Angeles Rams): The "Comeback Kid" himself landed with the Rams at pick 128. This might be the most interesting fit of the night. Can Bennett lead the Rams back to glory? Or will he get lost in the California sunshine? Only time will tell.
Christopher Smith, S (Las Vegas Raiders): This safety found a home in Vegas at pick 170. Here's hoping he brings more interceptions to the Raiders than Elvis impersonators.
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
Robert Beal, OLB (San Francisco 49ers): The 49ers grabbed this linebacker at pick 173. Maybe he can help the Niners' defense get even more fearsome.
So, Who Didn't Get Drafted?
There were a few surprises, like some talented Bulldogs going undrafted. But hey, that doesn't mean their NFL dreams are over! Just ask Zamir White, who balled out for the Raiders last year after going undrafted.
FAQ: You Ask, We Answer (Kinda)
How to be a Georgia Bulldog football player? Apparently, it involves exceptional talent, years of hard work, and the ability to deal with Kirby Smart's intensity.
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
How to get drafted by the NFL? Be really, really good at football. Like, REALLY good.
How to play in the NFL? Get drafted, then impress the heck out of your coaches during training camp.
How to become a Philadelphia Eagle? Be a Georgia Bulldogs defensive player, apparently.
How to attend the University of Georgia? Good grades and a stellar SAT score are a good start. But let's be honest, there's no guarantee, even if you can throw a football a mile.