Nolan Smith Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles

Nolan Smith Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles

Another class of former Bulldogs are making their long-time dreams of playing in the NFL a reality this weekend during the draft, and the most recent to do so is Nolan Smith who has been drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 30th overall pick. Smith was labeled as one of the biggest risers in the draft after the NFL combine as he saw his draft stock skyrocket after his impeccable performance at the event. 

At the combine, he clocked in a 4.39 in the 40-yard event, posted a 41.5" vertical jump, and a 10' 8" in the broad jump. Smith's stock as a prospect took a hit last year due to a season-ending pectoral injury, but his performance at the combine got him right into the mix of being a first-round selection. 

Prior to coming to Georgia, Smith was rated the No. 1 player in his class and a five-star recruit. He committed to the Bulldogs in 2017, and he never backed off of that pledge. During his four years at Georgia, Smith tallied 110 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks. The Savannah, Georgia native was viewed as a leader on defense and even maintained the role while he was sidelined for the remainder of the season. 

Georgia inside linebacker Rian Davis (0), Georgia outside linebacker Nolan Smith (4) during Georgia’s game against Tennessee on Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022. (Photo by Tony Walsh)

Smith left Georgia with an SEC title, played a pivotal role on one of the most historic college defenses in 2021, and as a two-time national champion. Now his focus shifts to the professional football league and making sure that he can continue being the successful and talented football player that he is. 

Other Georgia News:

• NCAA Adopts New Recruiting Rules for Visits
• Amarius Mims' "Time Has Come", Talks Through Growth at UGA
• How Georgia Could Make SEC History During the 2023 Season

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