Georgia Bulldogs Surge in 2026 Football Recruiting: Ten New Commitments!

DeBary, USA - The Georgia Bulldogs are on a roll in the recruiting game, particularly for their 2026 class. The period between June 22 and July 4 saw an impressive surge in commitments, with a striking total of 10 new players deciding to don the red and black. It’s great news for head coach Kirby Smart and his team, who are looking to secure their position as one of the toasts of college football.

Among the highlights of this recruiting wave was the commitment of several defensive talents, including defensive lineman James Johnson, who is set to bolster Georgia’s defensive line. Analysts have remarked that Johnson is not just a good deal—he’s considered a key pickup. Also making waves is wide receiver Craig Dandridge, who many believe will climb the rankings in the coming months. Equally surprising was the choice of Preston Carey, another defensive lineman, who opted for Georgia over his other options.

Key Commitments and Rankings

This recruiting frenzy has catapulted Georgia to No. 2 in the 247Sports Composite team rankings, just behind Southern California. The Bulldogs‘ commitment list over this period includes:

• LB Shadarius Toodle (June 22, 4-star, Mobile, Ala.)
• EDGE Khamari Brooks (June 23, 4-star, North Oconee)
• DL Corey Howard (June 24, 3-star, Valdosta)
• RB Jae Lamar (June 25, 4-star, Colquitt County)
• WR Craig Dandridge (June 26, 3-star, Cambridge High)
• CB Chace Calicut (June 27, 4-star, Houston, Texas)
• DL James Johnson (June 28, 4-star, Miami)
• DL PJ Dean (June 30, 4-star, Clemmens, N.C.)
• DL Preston Carey (June 30, 3-star, East Northport, N.Y.)
• TE Brayden Fogle (July 4, 4-star, Mansfield, Ohio)

However, the recruiting frenzy isn’t quite over. The Bulldogs have their sights set on five-star linebacker Tyler Atkinson from Grayson High School, who remains uncommitted and is actively pursued by top schools including Georgia. The pressure is on!

Looking Ahead

Georgia’s strategy includes not just bolstering defensive lines but enhancing strengths in other critical positions. Coach Smart and his staff are targeting elite talents, with a few standout recruits likely to shape the future of the Bulldogs. Among these are:

• Jared Curtis: A 5-Star Quarterback from Tennessee, recently choosing between Georgia and Oregon.
• Jackson Cantwell: A towering 5-Star Offensive Tackle from Missouri, who showcases exceptional footwork.
• Marc Bowman: A 4-Star Tight End from California, offering a playing style reminiscent of Brock Bowers.
• Kaiden Prothro: An athletic Tight End from Bowdon, GA, known for his versatility.

Georgia’s reputation as a recruiting powerhouse is further solidified by these efforts, especially under the watchful eye of coaches Tray Scott and Donte Williams, who have been pivotal in securing top defensive talents. The buzz around potential flips for talented players like Johnson and Calicut keeps both fans and analysts on their toes.

As the 2026 recruiting class begins to take shape, it’s clear that Georgia is on the right track to sign a top-5 class. If their recent momentum is any indicator, fans have plenty of reasons to be excited about the future of Bulldogs football.

For more on this recruiting journey, check out Savannah Now, Sports Illustrated, and Online Athens.