Sentell’s Intel: What does Georgia football look for in recruits at the EDGE position?

In the world of college football, few programs have consistently delivered elite-level talent and dominated on both sides of the ball like the University of Georgia. Under head coach Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs have become one of the premier teams in college football, routinely landing top-tier recruits, especially on the defensive side of the ball. One of the key positions that has garnered significant attention in recent years is the EDGE position, which is often critical to Georgia’s defensive success.

An EDGE rusher is a hybrid player who plays a key role in the defense’s ability to apply pressure on the quarterback, disrupt the passing game, and create opportunities for turnovers. For a team like Georgia, where defense has been a cornerstone of success, finding the right players at the EDGE position is vital. Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs’ coaching staff have a specific set of criteria that they look for when evaluating recruits for this important role. From athleticism to technique, here’s a deep dive into what Georgia football looks for in recruits at the EDGE position.

Understanding the EDGE Position

The EDGE position is one of the most dynamic and flexible spots on the field, with players often asked to do a little bit of everything. EDGE players are typically a mix of defensive ends and outside linebackers, tasked with rushing the passer, defending the run, and sometimes dropping back into coverage. The position requires a unique skill set—one that combines speed, strength, agility, and football IQ.

While a traditional defensive end typically focuses more on generating pressure from the front line, the EDGE rusher has to be versatile enough to line up in different positions along the defensive front and provide a consistent pass rush, regardless of where they are on the field. This is where Georgia’s emphasis on athleticism and technique comes into play. The EDGE position demands a blend of traits that allow players to disrupt offenses in multiple ways.

What Georgia Looks for in EDGE Recruits

When it comes to recruiting for the EDGE position, Georgia’s coaching staff, led by Smart and defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann, has a comprehensive approach. They focus on several key factors, each contributing to an athlete’s potential to excel in one of the most important positions on defense. Below are the primary attributes that the Bulldogs prioritize when scouting for EDGE talent.

1. Elite Athleticism and Speed

First and foremost, Georgia seeks elite athleticism in its EDGE recruits. The Bulldogs’ defense is built on speed and the ability to cover ground quickly, whether it’s pursuing the quarterback or tracking down ball carriers. EDGE rushers in Georgia’s system must possess the kind of explosive speed that allows them to close gaps quickly and disrupt the rhythm of opposing offenses.

Speed isn’t just about running fast—it’s about the ability to explode off the line of scrimmage, beat blockers to the edge, and chase down plays from behind. Players who can make an impact in open space, change directions seamlessly, and show burst off the snap are highly valued in Georgia’s defense.

Recruiting quick-twitch athletes who can change direction in a split second and generate speed in tight spaces is key. EDGE players must also have the stamina to play a full game without losing effectiveness, as they are often asked to play high-intensity snaps in critical situations.

2. Power and Strength

While speed is essential, EDGE players at Georgia also need strength and power. A successful EDGE rusher must be able to shed blockers, overpower offensive tackles, and use physicality to make a disruptive impact. This includes not only the strength to win battles at the line of scrimmage but also the ability to counteract offensive linemen who will try to lock them out or drive them off their rush lanes.

Georgia’s defensive front is often built around a strong, physical defensive line, and EDGE rushers play a pivotal role in that system. The ability to bull-rush an offensive tackle or defend the run with power is a key component of the role. For Georgia’s coaches, identifying players with a high degree of strength—especially those who can match their speed with power—is a top priority when evaluating recruits for this position.

3. Pass-Rush Techniques

Pass rushing is a highly technical skill that requires knowledge of different moves, counters, and techniques to beat offensive linemen. Georgia places significant emphasis on developing pass-rush techniques in its EDGE players. Simply being fast and strong isn’t enough—players need to be able to execute moves that consistently allow them to get to the quarterback.

From the rip move to the swim move, EDGE players must be able to use a variety of pass-rush techniques to navigate offensive linemen. Georgia’s coaching staff, which has experience developing some of the top pass-rushers in college football, will work with recruits to refine their moves, hand placement, footwork, and body positioning. EDGE recruits who show promise in this area are immediately given an opportunity to grow and sharpen their skill set in the Bulldogs’ defensive system.

4. Football IQ and Awareness

While athleticism and technique are important, football IQ and awareness are critical for any player in Georgia’s defensive system, especially at the EDGE position. The Bulldogs demand that their players have the ability to read offenses, anticipate plays, and make adjustments mid-game. The EDGE rusher must be able to identify offensive line schemes, recognize plays, and react accordingly.

The ability to recognize blocking schemes is essential in defending the run or rushing the passer. For instance, EDGE players must recognize when the offense is attempting to run a draw play, screen pass, or play-action pass, and adjust their approach accordingly. Georgia looks for recruits who demonstrate an understanding of offensive tactics and how to react quickly to changing situations.

Having high football IQ allows EDGE rushers to maintain discipline in the trenches, avoid being fooled by misdirection, and maximize their ability to disrupt offensive plays. Players with strong mental awareness can anticipate the movements of offensive linemen and quarterbacks, which often leads to creating sacks, tackles for loss, and forced fumbles.

5. Versatility and Ability to Play Multiple Roles

Georgia’s defense often requires EDGE players to switch between various roles, depending on the game plan and the situation. An EDGE rusher may be asked to rush the quarterback, drop back into coverage, or set the edge against the run. As a result, the Bulldogs prefer recruits who are versatile and capable of handling multiple responsibilities.

This flexibility also means that Georgia’s EDGE players need to be proficient in different types of coverage. Whether it’s covering running backs, tight ends, or wide receivers out of the backfield, having the ability to drop into coverage gives EDGE rushers an added dimension to their game. The Bulldogs appreciate athletes who can wear multiple hats and contribute in various facets of the defense.

6. Motor and Work Ethic

Perhaps one of the most underrated traits Georgia looks for in EDGE recruits is a relentless motor and work ethic. EDGE players must be able to play with intensity on every snap, and their ability to maintain a high level of energy is essential to the defense’s success. Georgia’s staff often seeks out players who give maximum effort on every play, regardless of the situation or the outcome.

Recruits who show a consistent drive to finish plays, who refuse to give up on pass rushes, and who hustle to make tackles even when they’re not in the immediate vicinity of the ball are highly valued. A player’s motor can often determine their success in the EDGE position, and Georgia’s defense thrives on players who are determined to outwork their opponents.

7. Leadership and Accountability

In addition to physical traits and technical skills, Georgia’s coaching staff looks for EDGE players who exhibit leadership qualities and accountability. The EDGE rusher is often one of the most visible players on the defense, and as such, they need to lead by example. Whether it’s leading teammates in drills, stepping up in big moments, or motivating others, leadership is an important part of the EDGE role.

Accountability is key as well. Players must take responsibility for their performance, be coachable, and understand their role within the team. Recruits who demonstrate strong leadership potential and are willing to buy into the team-first mentality that Kirby Smart promotes are highly sought after.