3 Georgia Bulldogs go in first-round NFL mock draft

Posted by author February 15, 2025 NFL

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The Georgia Bulldogs continue to produce elite NFL draft talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. 10 defensive players have been selected in the first round during the Kirby Smart era and that number is projected to grow.

In his latest mock draft (subscription required), ESPN analyst Field Yates projects three Bulldogs to be selected in the first round: linebacker Jalon Walker (No. 8 overall to the Carolina Panthers), pass rusher Mykel Williams (No. 7 overall to the New York Jets), and safety Malaki Starks (No. 27 overall to the Baltimore Ravens).

Jalon Walker, a dynamic edge rusher with exceptional first-step quickness, is ranked No. 5 overall and No. 2 among edge rushers on Yates’ drft board. Yates had high praise for Walker and thinks Walker’s first step is comparable to Penn State’s Abdul Carter for the best first step among edge rushers.

Mykel Williams, another highly-regarded edge rusher, is projected to be a top-10 pick. Williams was a great talent for Georgia’s defensive line over the past three years. The numbers do not show his impact. Williams posted 14 sacks over the past three seasons and has quick twitch athleticism and lanky arms that NFL teams love.

Malaki Starks is ranked as Yates’ top safety in the draft class. Starks solidifies Georgia’s strong presence in the first round. Starks was a three-year starter at UGA. His impact was felt in the first game of his career he caught an acrobatic interception against Bo Nix and Oregon in 2022’s season opener.

These three Georgia players join a growing list of top-tier Bulldogs defenders who are expected to make an immediate impact at the NFL level. We saw the impact of several Dawgs on display in the Super Bowl.