The anticipation surrounding the 2026 NFL Draft is growing, especially regarding how many players from the Georgia Bulldogs will be drafted this year.
Since the arrival of head coach Kirby Smart in Athens, the Bulldogs have consistently produced a significant number of NFL draft picks each offseason. Last year, an impressive 13 players were chosen, just a few seasons after Georgia set an NFL draft record with 15 selections.
While it is unlikely they will surpass that record this year, there is still a strong expectation that a notable group of former Bulldogs will hear their names called during the draft. According to experts, including analyst Miller, seven Georgia players are projected to be drafted this year, with two expected to go in the first round.
The first player off the board could be linebacker CJ Allen, who is expected to go 15th overall to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Miller described Allen as a leader and potential defensive captain, emphasizing his ability to excel in both blitzing and coverage situations. Despite some concerns from scouts regarding his size—standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 230 pounds—his instincts and toughness remain elite.
Following Allen, offensive tackle Monroe Freeling is projected to be selected 17th overall by the Detroit Lions. Miller highlighted Freeling as one of the few left tackles with a first-round grade, noting his athletic ability and the progress he made during the 2025 season.
Other Georgia players expected to be drafted include wide receiver Zachariah Branch in the second round at 42nd overall by the New Orleans Saints, tight end Oscar Delp in the fourth round at 109th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs, and wide receiver Dillon Bell in the sixth round at 200th overall by the Carolina Panthers.
One notable absence from this draft class is wide receiver Colbie Young, who was poised for a breakout season in 2025 but suffered a fractured leg early in the campaign. Young did manage to return for Georgia”s bowl game against Ole Miss, despite expectations that he would miss the rest of the season.
As the draft approaches, the Georgia Bulldogs remain a team to watch, with their strong pipeline of talent ready to make an impact at the next level.
