The Georgia Bulldogs have cemented themselves as a powerhouse in college football, consistently producing elite talent for the NFL. This year’s draft continues that tradition, with several former Dawgs expected to hear their names called on Day 2. While Georgia might not see as many first-round picks as in previous years, the depth and quality of their draft-eligible talent remains impressive. Here are four Bulldogs who are widely projected to come off the board in the second or third rounds and what makes them such intriguing prospects for NFL teams.
Cornerback Kamari Lassiter is among the most highly regarded Georgia defenders in this year’s class. Known for his physicality and competitive nature, Lassiter developed into a reliable force in Kirby Smart’s defensive scheme. Standing at 6 feet tall and around 180 pounds, Lassiter doesn’t blow scouts away with elite measurables, but his football IQ, instincts, and versatility have made him a coveted Day 2 target. He excels in both man and zone coverage, and his willingness to engage in run support makes him a complete corner. Lassiter’s performance against top-tier SEC competition — including holding his own against projected first-round receivers — has helped solidify his status as a potential second-round pick.
Another name gaining traction is wide receiver Ladd McConkey, who may not have the prototypical size of a dominant NFL wideout, but brings exceptional route-running, agility, and football savvy. Measuring around 6 feet and 185 pounds, McConkey has been a critical part of Georgia’s offense, known for his reliable hands and ability to create separation. His performance at the NFL Combine, where he posted strong numbers in agility drills, confirmed what many scouts already believed — McConkey can be an immediate contributor in the slot and a dependable third-down option. His toughness, combined with high football character, has endeared him to coaches across the league. McConkey could be one of the steals of the second or early third round.
On the defensive front, defensive lineman Nazir Stackhouse has drawn interest as a potential third-round selection. A space-eater in the middle of Georgia’s line, Stackhouse is listed at 6-foot-3 and around 320 pounds. He’s a traditional nose tackle with the strength to anchor against the run and enough burst to disrupt plays in the backfield. While his pass-rush upside may be limited compared to more dynamic interior defenders, his ability to command double-teams and plug gaps is invaluable in schemes that rely on stout defensive fronts. Stackhouse’s consistency and experience in one of college football’s most demanding defensive systems make him a safe and dependable pick for teams needing depth on the interior.
Rounding out the group is linebacker Smael Mondon Jr., an athletic and instinctive playmaker who could sneak into the late second round depending on how the board falls. Mondon brings a rare blend of speed and physicality, capable of flying sideline to sideline and making plays in coverage as well as against the run. At 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds, he has the frame and athleticism NFL teams covet in modern linebackers. While he’s still refining some aspects of his game — including block shedding and consistency in pursuit angles — his ceiling is high, and his special teams value adds to his appeal early on. Teams looking for a developmental linebacker with starter potential will likely take a hard look at Mondon on Day 2.
Georgia’s presence on Day 2 of the draft is yet another testament to the program’s elite development pipeline. While first-round picks often get the headlines, it’s these Day 2 selections that form the backbone of successful NFL rosters. With proven experience, strong work ethics, and a winning pedigree, Lassiter, McConkey, Stackhouse, and Mondon are poised to make immediate impacts at the next level. As Friday night unfolds, don’t be surprised to see the Georgia name called often — and confidently — by teams looking for winners.
