Georgia football: Nolan Smith reveals NFL Draft decision

Georgia Bulldogs linebacker announces his decision in regards to whether or not he will participate in the 2022 NFL Draft.

With every championship win, it’s inevitable that some of the team’s greatest players will leave for an improved situation. In college, it’s inevitable that players will leave after a few seasons, and on a championship team, it’s no surprise that many players declare for the NFL Draft early. After all, a senior season in college always allows for an injury that could dash NFL hopes.

But all Georgia linebacker Nolan Smith can think about is running it back with the Bulldogs, which is why he’s decided to stay in Athens for the 2022 season.

Georgia linebacker Nolan Smith decides to stay at Georgia for senior season

Crediting the place that prompted him to grow as a football player and a man, Smith said that after “careful consideration,” he wanted to “continue with what we have been building.”

It’s a big deal for Georgia, as their incredible championship run can be credited to Smith’s elite play this season. Fittingly, a sack by Smith was the final play of the Bulldogs’ 33-18 win over Alabama.

It makes sense for Nolan, who saw many of his career highs in the 2021 season, including eight tackles in two separate games, two tackles for a loss in a game, and seven quarterback pressures in a game.

But knowing who Smith is as a person, it’s unsurprising that he would choose to stay at Georgia for another year. The five-star high school prospect from Savannah chose to attend Georgia to stay close to his family.

“I never thought about leaving because I knew this is where my mom wanted me to be,” Smith said. “This is where I wanted to be. I came in just made the best of every day and tried to work and get better. I mean, I’m a Georgia boy, I love the state of Georgia.”

Perhaps when Smith does declare in next year’s draft, he could be drafted by the Atlanta Falcons and remain in the state that he loves.