Georgia has been setting new records in the NFL Draft over the last couple of years and may continue the trend in this year’s draft. Currently, 12 players from the Bulldogs have declared for the NFL Draft, prompting an exploration of potential destinations for these athletes.
BROCK BOWERS: NO. 5 LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Initially, Brock Bowers is expected to secure a spot in the first round, bringing an instant impact to any team that selects him. Picture him with the Los Angeles Chargers; provided they make a suitable head coach appointment. Alongside talents like Justin Herbert, Austin Ekeler, Keenan Allen, and Mike Williams, combined with the NFL’s highest-paid defense featuring stars across the board, the addition of Brock Bowers could elevate the Chargers to an immediate Super Bowl contender. Alternatively, other potential landing spots for Bowers include the Bears, Raiders, Broncos, Packers, or the Bengals.
KAMARI LASSITER: BUFFALO BILLS
Kamari Lassiter stands out as a premier cornerback prospect in this year’s draft. Numerous teams, including the Buffalo Bills, have a potential need for a cornerback. Despite Tre’Davious White’s excellence, his recent injury history raises concerns for the Bills, necessitating a reliable option for his complement or future replacement. Lassiter appears to be a strong choice for the Bills in addressing this requirement. Alternatively, the Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, and Las Vegas Raiders could also benefit from considering him as a viable fit.
AMARIUS MIMS: GREEN BAY PACKERS
Green Bay successfully clinched a playoff spot even in the absence of Aaron Rodgers, relying on Jordan Love to lead the offense. To ensure the continued development of Love and maintain their winning momentum, it’s crucial for the Packers to prioritize his protection. Amarius Mims emerges as a strong choice to safeguard Love and contribute significantly to the team’s success. Additionally, Mims’ presence would greatly enhance the Packers’ running game, complementing top weapons Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon in the backfield. This strategic move not only secures the quarterback but also fortifies the team’s overall offensive capabilities.
SEDRICK VAN PRAN: PIITSBURGH STEELERS
Pittsburgh has been methodically constructing its team, incorporating talent from Athens such as George Pickens, Broderick Jones, and Darnell Washington. To elevate the offensive output and align it with the team’s formidable defense, Mike Tomlin should consider rebuilding key positions. Selecting Sedrick Van Pran would be a sound choice, providing stability and skill to the offense. If the Steelers opt not to draft him, there’s potential for Van Pran to find a suitable fit with teams like the Jaguars or the Cowboys. His versatility and capabilities could contribute significantly to the offensive strategies of any of these teams.
LADD MCCONKEY: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS / HOUSTON TEXANS
With Bill Belichick no longer leading the New England Patriots, there’s a running joke about his preference for white receivers following him to his next coaching position. It’s likely that Ladd McConkey has caught his attention. However, McConkey is not your typical white receiver, and the Patriots need a legitimate receiving threat to complement their potential third overall pick at quarterback.
The Houston Texans could be an ideal destination for McConkey. In last year’s draft, they took risks on receiving threats to support their new franchise quarterback, CJ Stroud, and their gamble on Tank Dell paid off. McConkey could provide exceptional depth at the receiving position for Houston. With John Metchie facing challenges due to injury and Dell going out late with an injury, drafting McConkey makes sense. His immediate impact could be felt with his excellent route running and deep-threat abilities. A fitting comparison for his playing style might be Tyler Lockett.
JAVON BULLARD: GREEN BAY PACKERS
Javon Bullard stands out as one of the nation’s versatile defenders, showcasing potential that could propel him into Day Two of the draft. The Green Bay Packers, facing a significant shortage in safety depth, could find Bullard to be an ideal addition, especially considering they’ve already selected several standout defenders from Georgia who are making an impact on their defense. With Eric Stokes Jr. already part of the Packers’ secondary, Bullard could seamlessly integrate and contribute swiftly.
Alternatively, the Philadelphia Eagles, known for their history of drafting quality players from the University of Georgia, might continue this tradition by selecting Bullard. Given their pressing need for a safety, Bullard could be a valuable asset for the Eagles, further solidifying their defensive lineup.
MARCUS ROSEMAY-JACKSAINT: ATLANTA FALCONS
While the Atlanta Falcons haven’t historically leaned towards selecting Georgia Bulldogs with mid-round picks, the prospect of landing Marcus Rosemay-Jacksaint could bring a valuable WR2 to the table for their new head coach, and potentially a new quarterback as well. The emergence of Drake London as a serious WR1 threat highlights the need for a complementary receiver to open up opportunities for Kyle Pitts. The current WR2 for the Falcons, Mack Hollins, struggled to make a significant impact, finishing as the team’s fifth-leading receiver with only 251 yards for the entire season.
Marcus Rosemay-Jacksaint, if available in the mid-to-late rounds of the draft, could be a strategic addition for the Falcons. However, if the Falcons don’t pursue him, teams like Cleveland, Kansas City, and the Jets could also benefit from his talents, recognizing the value he brings to the receiving corps.
TYKEE SMITH: ARIZONA CARDINALS
Tykee Smith finds himself in a unique position, excelling in the STAR position. The Arizona Cardinals, in need of comprehensive assistance in their secondary, could benefit from Smith’s exceptional skills. His addition would bring a valuable upgrade to the team’s defensive backfield. Learning from Budda Baker, who has established himself as one of the league’s premier safeties for multiple years, Smith could undergo significant development and potentially evolve into a standout defensive back for the Cardinals.
KENDALL MILTON: MIAMI DOLPHINS
Kendall Milton delivered an impressive performance during the 2023 Orange Bowl and maintained a high level of play throughout the 2023 season after overcoming injuries. With Raheem Mostert showing signs of aging, the Miami Dolphins, despite his solid year, may require a reliable backup for De’von Achane, especially if he returns from injury and continues his promising start in Miami Gardens. The Dolphins, under the guidance of Mike McDaniels, could capitalize on Kendall Milton’s potential, molding him into their ideal running back.
Alternatively, if the Dolphins choose not to select him, the Baltimore Ravens, led by Todd Monken, might also be a suitable fit for Milton’s skill set. Monken’s expertise could further enhance Milton’s capabilities, making him a valuable asset for the Ravens’ backfield.
DAIJUN EDWARDS: HOUSTON TEXANS
Devin Singletary and Damien Pierce showcased their skills for the Houston Texans this season, but Singletary’s consistency has been a concern. To ensure the success of their offense under the likely Offensive Rookie of the Year, CJ Stroud, the Texans may seek a more reliable option at the running back position. Daijun Edwards could offer the consistency they need and become a valuable rotational piece in their backfield.
Additionally, the Los Angeles Rams could also benefit from Edwards’ talents. His abilities could provide the Rams with added depth and versatility in their running back rotation, offering a reliable option to complement their offensive scheme.
ZION LOGUE: DALLAS COWBOYS
Dallas has seen the development of another strong defense under the leadership of Dan Quinn, but there are still areas where they could use improvement. One notable gap is a reliable interior run defender, and Zion Logue could be the missing piece for the Cowboys in this regard. His skills could greatly contribute to shoring up their run defense.
Moreover, other teams, such as the Cleveland Browns or the Miami Dolphins, might also find Zion Logue’s talents appealing. His ability to excel in stopping the run could make him a valuable asset for teams looking to strengthen their defensive front. Whether it’s with the Cowboys or other potential suitors, Logue’s skills could have a positive impact on a team’s defensive capabilities.
TRAMEL WALTHOUR: CAROLINA PANTHERS
After a prolonged college career, Tramel Walthour is set to enter the NFL Draft. While he may be projected for later rounds, he presents a solid option for any team that selects him. The Carolina Panthers, currently in a significant rebuilding phase, could greatly benefit from adding Walthour to their roster. His presence could offer valuable depth to the defensive end position in Charlotte, contributing to the team’s efforts to strengthen its overall defensive unit.
Georgia NFL Draft Declarations:
DB, Javon Bullard DB, Kamari Lassiter DB, Tykee Smith WR, Marcus Rosemy Jacksaint WR, Ladd McConkey DL, Zion Logue RB, Kendall Milton RB, Daijun Edwards OL, Amarius Mims TE, Brock Bowers C, Sedrick Van Pran DE, Tramel Walthour Draft Eligible Bulldogs TE, Brock Bowers OL, Amarius Mims CB, Kamari Lassiter DB, Tykee Smith DB, Javon Bullard WR, RaRa Thomas WR, Ladd McConkey WR, Dominic Lovett WR, Marcus Rosmey-Jacksaint QB, Carson Beck, will return for 2024 season OG, Tate Ratledge, will return for 2024 season OC, Sedrick Van Pran OT, Xavier Truss, will return for 2024 season DE, Tramel Walthour DT, Zion Logue DT, Warren Brinson OLB, Chazz Chambliss LB, Smael Mondon, will return for 2024 season according to reports LB, Jamon Dumas-Johnson, transferring to Kentucky DL, Nazir Stackhouse, will return for 2024 season RB, Kendall Milton RB, Daijun Edwards K, Jared Zirkel, transferring to Texas A&M P, Brett Thorson S, Dan Jackson