ATHENS - It’s that time of year again in Athens - the recruiting trail is heating up, and Kirby Smart and his staff are out in full force, doing what they do best: identifying and securing the next wave of elite talent for Georgia football.
On Tuesday, Smart was back in Atlanta, making the rounds at some of the state’s most talent-rich programs. His stops included Creekside, Langston Hughes, Columbia, and Southwest DeKalb - all schools known for producing high-level athletes. While Smart stayed in-state, the rest of Georgia’s staff fanned out across the country, casting a wide net as they continue to build future classes.
Let’s take a closer look at a few in-state names who’ve recently picked up offers from the Bulldogs - and why they’re worth watching.
Taurean Rawlins | WR | Class of 2027 | Mount Vernon (GA)
One of the newest names on Georgia’s radar is Taurean Rawlins, a smooth 6-foot, 175-pound wideout from Sandy Springs. Rawlins is coached by former Bulldog standout Terrence Edwards - so he’s already getting the kind of mentorship that can shape a young receiver’s game early. After a visit from Georgia wide receivers coach James Coley, Rawlins landed an offer from the Dawgs this week.
His reaction? Pure joy.
“It felt unreal,” Rawlins said. “Me and Coach Coley had a great in-person conversation leading up to the offer.
I know that UGA football is a very promising and strong program and has an amazing community. It is also a very supportive and passionate fanbase.”
Rawlins has the numbers to back up the hype. As a junior, he hauled in 56 catches for 1,134 yards and 13 touchdowns - production that speaks to his route running, hands, and ability to stretch the field.
In a loaded metro-Atlanta talent pool, Rawlins is quickly emerging as one of the top receivers to watch in the 2027 class. More offers are likely on the way, but Georgia has already made its move.
Merrick Ham | EDGE | Class of 2027 | Marietta (GA)
If you’re looking for a physically gifted pass rusher with a sky-high ceiling, circle the name Merrick Ham. The 6-foot-6, 230-pound EDGE from Marietta turned heads all season as a sophomore, and now the Bulldogs are officially in the mix after extending an offer.
“When I got the UGA offer I didn’t even know what to say,” Ham said. “Obviously I called my parents first thing, but then my grandparents who are huge Georgia fans. I know that Georgia football is held to a higher standard than the rest of the country and it shows on the field with the dominance across recent years.”
Ham’s production backs up the buzz. He racked up 40 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and seven sacks, along with 13 QB pressures.
Add in three forced fumbles and a blocked kick, and you’re looking at a disruptive force who made life miserable for opposing offenses all year long. He’s a multi-sport athlete, which only adds to his appeal, and his frame and motor already scream Power 5 potential.
Georgia’s offer could be the first domino in what’s shaping up to be a major recruitment.
Nick Carroll | ATH | Class of 2028 | Toombs County (GA)
Down in Toombs County, there’s a rising star in the 2028 class who’s already making a name for himself on both sides of the ball. Nick Carroll is a true do-it-all athlete - the kind of player who can flip a game in an instant, whether he’s lined up at wide receiver or roaming the secondary.
His offer list is already growing, and now Georgia has joined the party.
“I was very surprised and shocked when I got the offer,” Carroll said. “I know UGA is a winning program and a great program.”
Carroll’s numbers jump off the page. He caught 46 passes for 722 yards and seven touchdowns on offense.
On defense? He tallied 42 tackles and seven interceptions - showing elite ball skills and instincts.
He’s a playmaker in every sense of the word, and the scary part is he’s just getting started. With two more years of high school ball ahead of him, Carroll has the tools to become one of Georgia’s top overall prospects in the 2028 cycle.
Final Thoughts
Georgia’s recruiting machine never slows down, and this latest batch of in-state offers shows the staff is continuing to prioritize homegrown talent. Whether it’s a polished receiver in Sandy Springs, a towering pass rusher in Cobb County, or a versatile weapon in small-town Georgia, the Bulldogs are staying aggressive - and strategic - in building their future.
Kirby Smart and company know the blueprint for championship success starts on the recruiting trail. And if this week is any indication, they’re staying one step ahead of the game.