Kirby Smart emphasizes NIL and the transfer portal, prioritizing players with passion, work ethic, and loyalty—those committed to Georgia, not just the highest bid.
In the ever-evolving world of college football, changes are a constant. With the introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and the growing prevalence of the transfer portal, coaches are facing new challenges in building and maintaining successful programs. For Kirby Smart, head coach of the University of Georgia Bulldogs, this shifting landscape has sparked both opportunities and frustrations. In a recent statement, Smart made it clear that while he recognizes the importance of NIL and the transfer portal in modern recruiting, his program will prioritize passion, work ethic, and loyalty over a pure monetary pursuit.
Smart’s comments underscore his commitment to building a program where players are driven by more than just financial incentives. He wants players who are genuinely invested in the team’s success, who possess a strong work ethic, and who are loyal to Georgia’s culture and tradition. This stance marks a clear distinction from a growing trend in college football, where some players may prioritize high-paying NIL deals and transfer opportunities over long-term commitment and personal growth.
As the landscape of college football continues to shift, Smart’s philosophy is one that champions relationships, work ethic, and loyalty as the foundation for sustained success. This approach not only aligns with Smart’s vision of what it means to be a Georgia Bulldog, but it also reflects a broader philosophy about the role of college athletics in the lives of student-athletes.
The Impact of NIL and the Transfer Portal on College Football
NIL deals and the transfer portal have changed the way college football operates. Since the NCAA allowed athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness, recruiting has taken on a new dynamic. Top recruits and even established players can now sign lucrative deals with companies, ranging from local businesses to large national brands. Meanwhile, the transfer portal has opened up new avenues for players who wish to change schools, often in pursuit of better playing opportunities, a change of scenery, or even a higher NIL payout.
While these changes have certainly created new opportunities for athletes, they have also raised concerns about the impact on team chemistry and player loyalty. With so many players on the move and deals to be made, it’s not always easy to keep track of who is truly committed to their team and who is simply chasing the highest bid. For coaches, these dynamics present a unique challenge: how to build a cohesive, focused team in a climate where financial incentives and personal interests often trump loyalty and hard work.
Kirby Smart has been vocal about his belief that NIL and the transfer portal can be double-edged swords. While he acknowledges the importance of providing players with opportunities to capitalize on their talents, he also believes that the foundation of a successful football program is built on more than just financial rewards. For Smart, NIL deals should be seen as a supplement to a player’s career, not the primary motivator for choosing a school. Similarly, the transfer portal should be a tool for players who are truly seeking a better opportunity—not simply a quick fix when things aren’t going their way.
Smart’s Philosophy on Building a Winning Culture
In his approach to building a successful team, Smart has consistently emphasized the importance of passion, work ethic, and loyalty. These values have been central to Georgia’s rise as a powerhouse in college football under his leadership. The Bulldogs have won multiple SEC titles and a national championship, and Smart’s recruiting efforts have been instrumental in turning Georgia into a perennial contender. However, Smart understands that success is not just about having the best talent—it’s about having the right talent, players who are committed to the team and to the values that Georgia represents.
One of Smart’s key philosophies is that players should be motivated by more than just money. He wants players who genuinely love the game, who work tirelessly to improve, and who are willing to put the team’s success above their personal ambitions. While NIL deals may be a factor in a player’s decision-making process, Smart insists that a player’s passion for football and his dedication to the team should always come first.
This is a stark contrast to some of the attitudes seen in today’s college football landscape, where NIL deals and transfer opportunities can sometimes overshadow the importance of building strong relationships within a team. At Georgia, Smart is looking for players who fit into the program’s culture—a culture defined by hard work, discipline, and a commitment to winning as a team.
The Role of Relationships in Smart’s Program
One of the most important aspects of Kirby Smart’s coaching philosophy is the emphasis on relationships. Whether it’s the relationship between the coach and his players, between teammates, or between the program and the community, Smart believes that strong, trusting relationships are the foundation for long-term success. This is especially crucial in an era where players have more freedom than ever before to change teams, transfer to other programs, or leave early for the NFL draft. Building a culture where players are truly invested in their team and their coach can help to mitigate the impact of the transfer portal and the uncertainty surrounding NIL.
Smart’s commitment to building relationships is reflected in the way he runs his program. He invests time in getting to know his players both on and off the field, fostering an environment where players feel valued and supported. This is in direct contrast to a culture where players might feel as though their worth is only determined by how much money they can make through NIL or how quickly they can land a starting role at a different program.
For Smart, relationships aren’t just about football—they are about developing well-rounded individuals who will succeed both on the field and in life. This approach helps create a sense of loyalty among players, which is essential for building a championship-caliber team. Players who feel connected to their coach and teammates are more likely to give their best effort, both in practice and in games. This commitment to relationship-building helps to ensure that Georgia’s success isn’t just a product of talent—it’s a product of a united, motivated team that is driven by shared goals and values.
What Does This Mean for Recruiting?
As Smart continues to recruit top talent for the Bulldogs, his focus on passion, work ethic, and loyalty will be a key part of the process. While NIL deals and the transfer portal are important factors in today’s recruiting landscape, Smart is looking for players who align with the program’s values. This means that recruits who are solely motivated by the highest bidder may not be the best fit for Georgia, even if they have outstanding athletic talent.
Instead, Smart is targeting players who are not only athletically gifted but who also possess the right mindset and work ethic. These are players who are eager to improve, who are committed to the team, and who want to be part of a culture that prioritizes hard work and selflessness. For Smart, recruiting is not just about signing the highest-ranked players—it’s about identifying individuals who will thrive within Georgia’s system and contribute to the program’s long-term success.
In many ways, Smart’s approach to recruiting reflects the values that have made Alabama and other elite programs successful. Rather than chasing after short-term wins or focusing solely on individual players, Smart is looking for athletes who will help build a sustainable, winning culture that extends beyond any one player or season. For Georgia, this philosophy has already paid dividends, with the Bulldogs becoming a perennial contender and securing national championships under Smart’s leadership.
The Future of College Football Under NIL and the Transfer Portal
As college football continues to evolve with NIL and the transfer portal, Kirby Smart’s approach may offer a blueprint for other programs looking to maintain success while navigating these new dynamics. By emphasizing passion, work ethic, and loyalty, Smart is ensuring that his program remains focused on the long-term success of the team, rather than short-term individual gains.
In an age where financial incentives can sometimes take center stage, Smart’s commitment to building strong relationships and fostering a culture of hard work is a refreshing reminder of what college football is all about. While NIL deals and the transfer portal will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of the sport, Smart’s philosophy reinforces the idea that success is ultimately about more than money—it’s about dedication, commitment, and the pursuit of greatness as a team.
As Georgia continues to compete at the highest level, Smart’s approach will likely serve as a model for success, showing that while change is inevitable, the core values of passion, work ethic, and loyalty will always remain central to building a championship-winning program.
