5 Georgia stars who won’t be back and their replacements for 2023
By John Buhler
Nolan Smith remained an emotional leader well after he could no longer play
It may not have looked like it during the national title blowout, but one of Georgia’s few weaknesses this season was its pass rush. While it was more than serviceable, it did take a big hit when Nolan Smith tore his pectoral muscle down the stretch. The stats were not there, but his flashes of brilliance are why he projects as a late first-round pick in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft.
In terms of what he is as a pro prospect, Smith could be as good as Leonard Floyd or Azeez Ojulari have been at the NFL level. He may not have the athleticism of Floyd or the instinctive nature of Ojulari, but Smith will have success professionally, alright. Even if he is closer to Lorenzo Carter was coming out, Smith has a fantastic NFL career ahead of him with plenty of sacks to be made.
Production aside, he has the heart of a champion and was an emotional leader for this program.
Georgia replacement for Nolan Smith: Mykel Williams
We certainly saw glimpses of it this season and definitely during the national title bout. Mykel Williams is going to be a problem in SEC country for the next two seasons. Georgia should be absolutely filthy in its linebacking corps next season, which will only amplify its surging pass rush. Williams has double-digit sack potential coming off the edge. He also plays with great instincts.
The Dawgs will be looking for a few new defensive disruptors in 2023, and Williams can be that.