Three first-rounders in one draft class is no small achievement, and it reflects the tremendous work Kirby Smart has done in building a powerhouse
Mykel Williams, Malaki Starks, and their fellow draftee represent more than just individual success stories—they are the embodiment of a program at the peak of college football excellence.
For Smart, this is both a validation and a launching pad. With recruiting continuing at an elite level and NFL success fueling the program’s image, Georgia shows no signs of slowing down.
The next wave of Bulldogs is already in the pipeline—and if recent history is any indication, we’ll be seeing more red and black on NFL stages for years to come.
As Kirby Smart said, Jalon Walker will always be a “Dawg for life.” His time at Georgia may be over, but the impact he made on the program—and the bonds he formed—will last forever.
Now, with his NFL journey beginning in Atlanta, Walker has the opportunity to write the next chapter of his football career just a short drive from where it all started.
Falcons fans and Georgia faithful alike will be watching, cheering, and believing in the bright future ahead for Jalon Walker.
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Kirby Smart’s Heartfelt Message
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Coach Kirby Smart expressed deep pride in Walker’s journey from college athlete to NFL first-round pick.1
He wrote:
“Congrats @JalonWlaker your dream has finally come true, and we are so grateful to have been part of it!! Your parents have done an unbelievable job raising you, and I know they are so proud. The @AtlantaFalcons got a great player and an even better person. You’re a dawg for life. GO DAWGS!!”
Smart’s words highlight not only Walker’s talent on the field but also his character off it.
The message struck a chord with Bulldogs supporters and demonstrated the strong bond between Georgia players and their coach, even after their college careers end.
Congrats @JalonWlaker your dream has finally come true, and we are so grateful to have been a part of it !! Your parents have done an unbelievable job raising you, and I know they are so proud. The @AtlantaFalcons got a great player and an even better person. You’re a dawg for… pic.twitter.com/JGW0d4KOG8
— Coach Kirby Smart (@KirbySmartUGA) April 25, 2025
A Stellar Junior Season at Georgia
Jalon Walker capped off his college football journey with an impressive junior season that showcased his value as both a pass rusher and a run stopper.
In 2024, he led the Bulldogs in sacks and was a cornerstone of their defense.
Walker’s season totals included 61 tackles, with 38 of those being solo efforts. He also tallied 6.5 sacks and consistently applied pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
His explosive athleticism and football instincts made him a force to be reckoned with.
Dominance Against Texas: A Career-Defining Game
Walker’s standout performance came on October 19, 2024, when the Bulldogs took on the Texas Longhorns in a pivotal SEC matchup. Georgia walked away with a 30-15 victory, thanks in part to Walker’s exceptional play on defense.
In that game, Walker recorded eight tackles and three sacks. He also recovered a crucial fumble in the second quarter, halting a promising Texas drive and preserving Georgia’s momentum.
It was a game that caught the attention of scouts and solidified his status as a top defensive prospect.
Kirby Smart: Final Bow in the Sugar Bowl
Walker’s final appearance in a Georgia uniform came during the 2025 Sugar Bowl on January 2.2
Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, they suffered a 23-10 loss to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Walker wasn’t able to match his earlier season performances, finishing the game with three total tackles (two solo) and one pass deflection.
Despite the tough loss, the game marked the end of a college career filled with consistent production and leadership.
College Career in Review
Over three seasons with the Bulldogs, Jalon Walker developed into one of the nation’s premier linebackers. His college career totals included:
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90 total tackles
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57 solo tackles
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12.5 sacks
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1 forced fumble
Walker’s blend of speed, power, and awareness made him an every-down linebacker, capable of contributing in a variety of roles. His versatility and durability were key assets for Georgia’s defense.
A Leader in the Locker Room
Beyond the statistics, Walker served as an emotional and motivational leader for his team. Coaches and teammates often praised his work ethic, preparation, and commitment to excellence.
“He’s one of those guys who shows up every day ready to compete,” Coach Smart said during the 2024 season. “He leads by example, and his teammates feed off his energy.”
This type of leadership is something NFL franchises value highly, and it no doubt played a role in the Falcons’ decision to draft him in the first round.
Kirby Smart: The Atlanta Falcons’ Investment
By using their 15th overall pick on Jalon Walker, the Atlanta Falcons made a strong statement about their commitment to improving their defense.3
Atlanta has struggled in recent years to find a consistent presence at linebacker, and Walker offers a potential solution.
His ability to rush the passer, drop back in coverage, and play sideline-to-sideline gives the Falcons a versatile weapon in the middle of the field. Pairing Walker with other young defenders could help spark a defensive renaissance in Atlanta.
A Georgia-to-Atlanta Pipeline
Walker is just the latest in a growing trend of Georgia Bulldogs making the leap to the NFL, particularly to teams in the Southeast. With the Falcons selecting him, the connection between UGA and Atlanta continues to strengthen.
This pipeline benefits both programs: Georgia builds its reputation as a top-tier development program, while Atlanta gains access to battle-tested, NFL-ready talent. Walker’s selection is a win-win for the state of Georgia and for football fans across the region.
Support from the Bulldog Community
- After news of the draft broke, Georgia fans, alumni, and current players flooded social media with congratulations and support for Walker.
- Many shared clips of his biggest plays, along with messages celebrating his accomplishments and wishing him success in the NFL.
- Walker responded with gratitude, thanking Coach Smart, his teammates, and Bulldog Nation for their unwavering support. His humble and gracious demeanor has made him a fan favorite, both at the college and professional levels.
- Now that he’s officially an Atlanta Falcon, Walker will enter rookie minicamp and begin his transition to the NFL.
- He’ll face challenges adjusting to the speed and complexity of the pro game, but his foundation at Georgia gives him a strong head start.
- Walker is expected to compete for a starting linebacker spot during training camp. If he continues to improve and adapt, he could quickly become a key figure in the Falcons’ defensive schemes.
High Expectations, High Potential
With a first-round selection comes significant expectations. Walker will be asked to step into a leadership role early in his career and help turn around a Falcons defense that has struggled to find its identity in recent seasons.
The coaching staff in Atlanta is reportedly excited about Walker’s potential. His film shows a player who understands schemes, reacts quickly, and has the physical tools to make an immediate impact.
Jalon Walker’s rise to the NFL is the result of years of dedication, perseverance, and support from those around him—especially his parents, whom Kirby Smart was quick to credit. From his early days as a high school standout to his time in Athens, Walker has continually put in the work to improve.
His journey serves as a reminder of what’s possible when talent meets determination. For young athletes across the country, Walker is a model of how to carry oneself with class while chasing big dreams.
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Kirby Smart’s NFL Draft Legacy Grows
Who Joined the First-Round Ranks?
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has once again proven that his program is a direct pipeline to the NFL.
With three former Bulldogs drafted in the first round of the latest NFL Draft, Smart’s ability to develop elite-level talent continues to impress scouts, fans, and future recruits alike.
The trio of Mykel Williams, Malaki Starks, and another top pick has solidified Georgia’s status as one of the premier talent-producing schools in college football.
This success doesn’t just reflect on the individuals—it’s a testament to the culture and coaching that Smart has cultivated in Athens.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these standout players, their journeys, and how their selection impacts the future of Georgia football.
Mykel Williams: A Relentless Edge Presence
Selected 11th overall by the San Francisco 49ers, Mykel Williams made waves throughout his college career with his athleticism and explosive play on the edge.
At 6-foot-5 and 265 pounds, Williams combines size, speed, and technique in a way that made him one of the most feared defensive players in the SEC.
During his final season with Georgia, Williams posted 21 total tackles, including 15 solo stops. He added five sacks and two forced fumbles, consistently wreaking havoc in opposing backfields.
His presence was a game-changer—whether Georgia needed a big third-down stop or a crucial turnover, Williams delivered. Scouts were particularly impressed with his motor and ability to win both inside and outside against offensive tackles.
Fit With the 49ers
Landing in San Francisco, Williams joins an already formidable defense anchored by stars like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.
The 49ers have a history of maximizing talent on defense, and Williams’ raw ability gives them another dynamic weapon in their pass-rushing rotation. Many analysts expect him to make an immediate impact, possibly even starting as a rookie in sub-packages.
The Backbone of the Secondary
- Taken with the 27th overall pick by the Baltimore Ravens, Malaki Starks is a high-IQ safety with a nose for the football.
- At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, Starks brings a mix of physicality and coverage skills that make him a rare find at the safety position.
- In his final season at Georgia, Starks led the team with 77 total tackles, including 52 solo tackles. He also notched one interception and was a vocal leader in the secondary.
- Known for his ability to read the quarterback and make instinctive plays, Starks often served as the last line of defense, cleaning up broken plays and preventing long gains.
- Baltimore’s defense has long been associated with toughness and intelligence—two traits Starks brings in abundance.
- He’ll likely slot in alongside All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton, giving the Ravens one of the most promising young safety duos in the league.
- With a knack for being in the right place at the right time, Starks could thrive in Baltimore’s complex, aggressive scheme.
Kirby Smart’s Defensive Mind: The Common Thread
While each of these three players brings unique skills to the table, they all share one common factor: they were molded in Kirby Smart’s system.
A former defensive coordinator himself, Smart has an unparalleled eye for defensive talent and an ability to maximize each player’s potential.
Scheme and Development
Smart’s defense is known for its complexity, discipline, and aggression. Players are taught to be versatile and mentally sharp, often preparing them better than many pro-style college systems.
From run fits to coverage assignments, Georgia defenders are trained to think like professionals.
The results speak for themselves—many former Georgia defenders arrive in the NFL with a clear understanding of concepts, terminology, and responsibilities that mirror what they’ll face at the next level.
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Setting the Standard in the SEC
With Alabama undergoing changes and other programs looking to rebuild, Georgia is asserting its dominance as the premier program in the Southeastern Conference. Repeated first-round success only reinforces that status.
This isn’t a one-off year for Georgia. The Bulldogs have been a fixture in the playoff conversation and have had multiple players drafted early year after year.
What separates Georgia from others is the combination of elite recruiting and proven development. It’s not just about bringing in five-star talent—it’s about making them better.
Smart and his staff are not resting on their laurels. With more elite defensive recruits committed and another strong season likely ahead, Georgia seems poised to continue this trend. Future draft classes may be even deeper, with several underclassmen already on NFL radars.
NFL Coaches Take Notice
It’s not just fans and analysts who are praising Georgia’s pipeline—NFL coaches and general managers are increasingly looking to Athens as a reliable source of pro-ready talent.
NFL decision-makers know what they’re getting with Georgia players. They come in with advanced football IQ, physical toughness, and professional work habits. This reputation makes it easier for Bulldogs to climb draft boards and earn early playing time in the league.
Some scouts even noted that Georgia defenders often test better in interviews and whiteboard sessions than their peers, thanks to the mental demands of Smart’s system.
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