Georgia football is targeting a trio of elite in-state prospects, and each of those recruits have their official visits set.
The University of Georgia’s football program, under the leadership of head coach Kirby Smart, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to securing top-tier talent, particularly from within the state. In the 2025 recruiting cycle, this focus has intensified as the Bulldogs target a trio of elite in-state prospects: defensive lineman Elijah Griffin, linebacker Zayden Walker, and quarterback Julian Lewis. Each of these athletes brings a unique set of skills and accolades, making them highly coveted recruits not only for Georgia but also for other prominent programs nationwide.
Elijah Griffin: The Defensive Powerhouse
Elijah Griffin, a five-star defensive lineman from Savannah, has been a standout player throughout his high school career. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 280 pounds, Griffin’s combination of size, agility, and football intelligence has placed him among the top five players in the 2025 class. His junior year was particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to dominate the line of scrimmage and disrupt opposing offenses.
Griffin’s recruitment has been a focal point for Georgia. He has developed strong relationships with the coaching staff, particularly head coach Kirby Smart, who has been recruiting him since eighth grade. Griffin has emphasized the importance of personal growth and development, citing Georgia’s track record of preparing players for the NFL as a significant factor in his consideration. His decision is highly anticipated, with Georgia competing against programs like Miami and USC for his commitment.
Zayden Walker: The Defensive Dynamo
Linebacker Zayden Walker, hailing from Schley High School in Ellaville, is another top-tier in-state prospect. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 220 pounds, Walker is ranked as the No. 15 overall prospect and the No. 2 outside linebacker in the 2025 ESPN 300. His athleticism and versatility have made him a key target for Georgia’s defense.
Walker committed to Georgia in June 2024, choosing the Bulldogs over other notable programs, including Miami and South Carolina. His decision followed an official visit to Athens, where he was impressed by the program’s culture and the opportunity to develop under defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann. Walker’s commitment adds significant strength to Georgia’s 2025 class, aligning with the program’s tradition of producing elite linebackers.
Julian Lewis: The Quarterback Prodigy
Julian Lewis, a five-star quarterback from Carrollton, has been a prominent figure in the recruiting landscape. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 185 pounds, Lewis is known for his accuracy, arm strength, and football IQ. Initially committed to USC in August 2023, Lewis’s recruitment took a turn when he flipped his commitment to Colorado in November 2024, drawn by the opportunity to play under head coach Deion Sanders and the prospect of early playing time.
Despite his commitment to Colorado, Georgia has remained a significant presence in Lewis’s recruitment. He has visited Athens multiple times, and the Bulldogs have continued their efforts to bring the talented quarterback back to his home state. Lewis’s decision will be closely watched as National Signing Day approaches, with the possibility of further developments.
The Significance of In-State Recruiting
Georgia’s focus on these in-state prospects underscores the program’s strategy of building a strong foundation with homegrown talent. Historically, the Bulldogs have prioritized recruiting within Georgia, recognizing the state’s rich pool of high school football talent. In the 2025 class, this approach is evident, with the potential to sign the most in-state prospects since head coach Kirby Smart’s tenure began in 2016.
Securing commitments from Griffin, Walker, and potentially Lewis would not only bolster Georgia’s roster with elite talent but also reinforce the program’s reputation as the premier destination for the state’s top athletes. The official visits and ongoing recruitment efforts highlight the importance of these players to Georgia’s future success.
Looking Ahead
As the recruiting cycle progresses, all eyes will be on these elite in-state prospects and their decisions. Georgia’s coaching staff is diligently working to showcase the program’s strengths, from its developmental track record to its championship culture, aiming to secure commitments that could define the Bulldogs’ success in the coming years. The pursuit of Griffin, Walker, and Lewis exemplifies Georgia’s dedication to building a powerhouse program rooted in homegrown talent.
