PFF’s highest graded defensive players from Georgia football include standout performances by key contributors, highlighting their dominance on the field.
Georgia football has long been recognized as a powerhouse in college football, especially under the leadership of head coach Kirby Smart. The program’s commitment to building a dominant defense has been a cornerstone of its success in recent years, with many of the Bulldogs’ top players making their mark on both the national stage and at the next level. One of the key metrics used to evaluate players is Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades, which offer an analytical and objective way of assessing a player’s performance on the field. PFF’s highest-graded defensive players from Georgia football reflect not just individual talent, but also the strength of the team’s overall defensive unit, which has played a huge role in Georgia’s rise to prominence.
The Bulldogs have been known for their suffocating defense, which is built around a fierce defensive line, elite linebackers, and a secondary that is capable of shutting down even the most talented quarterbacks and receivers in the country. With so many standout performances from Georgia’s defensive players, we’ll take a deep dive into some of the highest-graded individuals from Pro Football Focus, breaking down their play styles, key contributions, and why they have earned such elite grades.
1. Jalen Carter – Defensive Tackle
Jalen Carter has been a dominant force on Georgia’s defensive line, and his PFF grades reflect his incredible impact on the field. As one of the top interior defensive linemen in college football, Carter consistently grades out among the best defensive players in the country. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 310 pounds, Carter is both powerful and quick, a rare combination that allows him to disrupt plays both as a pass rusher and as a run defender.
In 2022, Carter’s PFF grades were consistently among the highest on the Georgia defense. He posted exceptional pass-rush grades, with his ability to collapse the pocket and generate pressure on the quarterback standing out. In addition to his pass-rushing prowess, Carter’s ability to stop the run made him an even more valuable asset for Georgia. He is adept at disengaging from blockers, using his hands to shed offensive linemen and get into the backfield. His versatility in multiple defensive schemes has made him a key component of Georgia’s defense, as he can line up in various positions and still provide elite-level play.
Carter’s high PFF grade comes not only from his individual statistics but also from his ability to influence the game in subtle ways. Even when he doesn’t register a sack or a tackle for loss, his presence alone forces opposing quarterbacks and offensive linemen to account for him on every snap. His ability to command double teams and draw attention from multiple blockers creates opportunities for other players on the defense to shine.
2. Nolan Smith – Outside Linebacker
Nolan Smith, one of Georgia’s premier outside linebackers, has earned consistently high grades from PFF, particularly for his play as a pass rusher. Known for his speed and agility, Smith is a player who can wreak havoc on quarterbacks. Standing at 6’3” and weighing 235 pounds, Smith is a prototypical edge rusher who combines explosive athleticism with refined pass-rushing technique.
Smith’s ability to bend around the edge, coupled with his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage, makes him a nightmare for offensive tackles. His PFF grades in 2022 were exceptional, especially in pass-rush situations. Smith had a knack for getting to the quarterback in critical moments, and his grades reflected that. His ability to generate pressure consistently allowed him to rack up numerous quarterback hurries and sacks, disrupting opposing offenses. His combination of speed and power allows him to win in different ways, whether it’s through a quick burst off the edge or using his hands to fight through blockers.
However, Smith’s PFF grades don’t just reflect his pass-rush ability. He has also been praised for his coverage skills in pass defense. Smith’s athleticism allows him to cover ground quickly, whether it’s in the flat, covering tight ends, or picking up running backs out of the backfield. His versatility makes him an invaluable piece of Georgia’s defense, and his high PFF grade is a testament to his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways.
3. Kelee Ringo – Cornerback
Kelee Ringo, Georgia’s standout cornerback, is another player who consistently receives high marks from PFF. Ringo’s ability to lock down top-tier receivers and excel in man-to-man coverage has made him one of the top cornerbacks in college football. His combination of size (6’2”, 210 pounds), speed, and ball skills makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. He is physically gifted, able to go toe-to-toe with the fastest and most talented receivers in the country while maintaining the agility to make plays on the ball.
Ringo’s high PFF grades come as a result of his shutdown ability in coverage. He is a true cornerback who excels in both press and off-man coverage, and his ability to mirror receivers is impressive. In addition to his coverage skills, Ringo is also an exceptional tackler. He has shown an ability to come up in run support and finish plays effectively. His ability to take away the deep ball is another critical asset for Georgia, as it allows their defense to limit explosive plays.
What stands out most about Ringo, though, is his poise and confidence. His ability to stay calm and collected in high-pressure situations has made him one of the top cornerbacks in the SEC and a potential first-round NFL draft pick. Ringo’s ability to stay disciplined in coverage and win his individual battles week in and week out is reflected in his impressive PFF grades.
4. Christopher Smith – Safety
Christopher Smith, Georgia’s experienced safety, has been another key piece of the Bulldogs’ defense and has earned stellar grades from PFF due to his exceptional playmaking ability. Known for his intelligence and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes, Smith plays a critical role in Georgia’s secondary. His ability to diagnose plays and react quickly makes him one of the top safeties in college football.
Smith’s PFF grades have consistently reflected his all-around game. He excels in both pass coverage and run support, and his awareness on the field allows him to make plays that other players might miss. Whether it’s tracking the ball in the air, coming down to make a tackle in the open field, or providing assistance in deep coverage, Smith is always where he needs to be. His ability to read the quarterback’s intentions allows him to jump routes and make plays on the ball, earning him numerous pass breakups and interceptions.
In addition to his coverage skills, Smith is a strong tackler who isn’t afraid to step up in run defense. His ability to cover ground quickly and support the run game makes him a complete safety who can contribute in every aspect of the game. Smith’s high PFF grade is a direct result of his all-around skills and his ability to impact the game in multiple facets.
5. Jordan Davis – Defensive Tackle (2021)
While Jordan Davis is no longer with the team, his impact on Georgia’s defense during the 2021 season is still felt, and his PFF grades from that time remain a testament to his dominance. Davis, a towering defensive tackle at 6’6” and 340 pounds, was a force to be reckoned with in the middle of Georgia’s defensive line. Known for his size and strength, Davis was an immovable object who commanded constant double teams, opening up opportunities for his teammates to make plays.
Davis’ PFF grades reflected his dominance against the run, as he consistently plugged up running lanes and shed blockers with ease. His ability to collapse the pocket as a pass rusher was also impressive for a player of his size. Davis wasn’t just a space-eater; he was a legitimate threat who could generate pressure on the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses. His ability to play with power, leverage, and technique made him a key player in Georgia’s championship defense.
Though Davis has since moved on to the NFL, his time at Georgia left a lasting legacy, and his PFF grades from the 2021 season are a testament to the kind of impact he had on the field.
