They play with an edge,” said Eagles general manager about selecting Georgia players.

The University of Georgia has long been a powerhouse in college football, producing elite athletes who go on to dominate at the next level. In recent years, the Georgia Bulldogs have truly solidified themselves as a pipeline for NFL talent, and the 2025 NFL Draft is expected to be no different. While there are many teams that look to recruit players from UGA’s football program, one particular franchise has repeatedly turned to the Bulldogs in its quest to build a championship-caliber roster: the Philadelphia Eagles.

Eagles general manager Howie Roseman has become a strong advocate for selecting Georgia players in the draft. His comments about the players coming from Georgia resonate with a growing sentiment around the league—Georgia players “play with an edge.” This characteristic has not only fueled their success on the collegiate level but also prepared them to transition seamlessly into the NFL, where competition is fierce, and mental toughness is paramount.

This article will delve into why the Philadelphia Eagles, along with other NFL teams, are so eager to draft Georgia players, focusing on the concept of “playing with an edge” and how this mentality translates into success both on and off the field. We will explore how Georgia’s football program has developed such a reputation and why the Eagles, who are coming off a strong Super Bowl appearance in 2023, continue to prioritize UGA talent.

Georgia’s Football Legacy: A Legacy of Toughness

The phrase “playing with an edge” is not just a buzzword; it speaks to a mentality, a culture that has been instilled into Georgia’s football program over the years. Under head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia has transitioned from a strong SEC contender to a perennial powerhouse. Smart, a former defensive coordinator at Alabama, has brought a high level of discipline and intensity to the program, and his coaching philosophy is one that demands a no-nonsense approach to football. Players are expected to bring physicality, resilience, and an unrelenting drive to every practice, every game, and every rep.

This mentality is cultivated from day one in the program. Georgia recruits players who are not only athletically gifted but also mentally tough. Under Smart’s guidance, the Bulldogs have become synonymous with toughness. Players on both sides of the ball are developed to handle adversity, stay focused under pressure, and rise to the occasion in critical moments. This philosophy has permeated every level of the team, with the culture of discipline and aggression being particularly evident on defense, where Georgia has been particularly dominant in recent years.

When you watch a Georgia football game, it’s immediately apparent that they play with an edge. Whether it’s their defense, which has been dominant in neutralizing high-powered offenses, or their offense, which employs a physical running game and high-effort blocking schemes, Georgia’s players show an ability to play through fatigue, push through adversity, and always find ways to finish plays. That “edge” is what makes Georgia players so attractive to NFL teams.

Eagles’ Selection of Georgia Players

The Philadelphia Eagles have become one of the most successful teams in the NFL in recent years, and much of their success has come from building through the draft. Howie Roseman, the Eagles’ general manager, has made it a priority to target players who fit the team’s culture—players who are tough, resilient, and mentally prepared for the high level of competition that the NFL demands. In recent drafts, the Eagles have turned to Georgia time and again, securing high-impact players who can contribute immediately.

The 2022 NFL Draft is a perfect example of the Eagles’ Georgia strategy. Philadelphia selected Jordan Davis, a massive defensive tackle, in the first round. Davis was a key cog in Georgia’s defense, and his ability to control the line of scrimmage was a major factor in the Bulldogs’ success that season. Davis’ combination of size (6’6” and 340 pounds) and athleticism was exactly what the Eagles were looking for to help bolster their defensive front.

The very next pick, in the second round, the Eagles selected linebacker Nakobe Dean, another Georgia product. Dean, a dynamic and athletic linebacker, was the leader of Georgia’s defense, known for his speed, intelligence, and playmaking ability. His presence in the Eagles’ locker room immediately strengthened the team’s defense, and his “edge” mentality fit perfectly with the Eagles’ tough, blue-collar identity.

In the 2023 NFL Draft, the Eagles again turned to Georgia, selecting Jalen Carter, a dominant defensive lineman who was widely regarded as one of the best players in the draft. Carter’s ability to disrupt offenses, his leadership on and off the field, and his relentless drive are qualities that make him a perfect fit for the Eagles’ defense. The Philadelphia defense is built on a foundation of toughness and physicality, and Carter’s ability to impose his will on opposing offensive lines made him a priority for the Eagles.

Eagles general manager Howie Roseman explained the team’s affinity for selecting Georgia players in the draft: “They play with an edge. They’re tough, they’re physical, and they understand how to compete at a high level. When we look for players, we want guys who know how to win and understand the game on both a physical and mental level. Georgia players fit that mold perfectly.”

The Eagles’ success with Georgia players has certainly not been a coincidence. Over the years, Georgia has produced numerous players who are built for the physical and mental rigors of the NFL. From offensive and defensive linemen to linebackers and defensive backs, Georgia players bring an attitude to the game that complements the Eagles’ philosophy.

Playing with an Edge: What Does It Mean?

The idea of playing with an edge is multifaceted. At its core, it’s about attitude, effort, and mental toughness. It’s about being relentless, never backing down, and always finding a way to push through. For Georgia, this attitude is cultivated in every aspect of the program. Players are not only expected to be great athletes; they’re expected to have a strong mindset that allows them to rise to the occasion and perform at their best, regardless of the situation.

Playing with an edge also involves physicality. Georgia players, especially on defense, are known for their aggressive style of play. They don’t shy away from contact and are often the ones delivering the hardest hits on the field. Whether it’s a defensive lineman overpowering an offensive lineman or a linebacker coming up to stuff a running back at the line of scrimmage, Georgia players take pride in their ability to play physically. That same attitude translates to the NFL, where players who can impose their will on opponents are highly coveted.

The mental aspect of playing with an edge is just as important as the physical component. Georgia players are coached to stay focused and remain calm under pressure. They are taught how to handle adversity, both on and off the field, and how to maintain a winning mindset even when things aren’t going their way. NFL teams like the Eagles recognize that a player’s ability to stay mentally tough in high-pressure situations is crucial to success at the professional level. Whether it’s coming back from a tough loss, making a critical play in the fourth quarter, or enduring a long season, Georgia players are mentally prepared to handle the demands of the NFL.

The Impact on the Eagles’ Super Bowl Push

The Eagles’ focus on selecting Georgia players has proven to be a wise strategy. With the additions of players like Jordan Davis, Nakobe Dean, and Jalen Carter, the Eagles’ defense has become even more formidable. The mental toughness and physicality that Georgia players bring have been key factors in the Eagles’ continued success. Davis, for example, has been instrumental in helping the Eagles’ defensive line dominate against the run, while Carter’s ability to collapse the pocket and create havoc has made a significant impact.

These players not only contribute on the field but also bring an important leadership dynamic to the team. Georgia players, having played in big games and experienced the intensity of college football’s biggest stage, are well-equipped to handle the bright lights of the NFL. The Eagles’ defense has flourished under the guidance of these Georgia players, and they have played an integral role in the team’s Super Bowl aspirations.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, it is expected that the Eagles will continue to prioritize Georgia players, recognizing that the program’s commitment to toughness and mental discipline fits perfectly with their championship goals. As the team looks to strengthen its roster and build on its Super Bowl run, Georgia players will remain a key piece of the puzzle.

Conclusion: The Bulldogs’ Edge

Georgia’s football program has become synonymous with toughness, mental fortitude, and physicality. This “edge” is what makes Georgia players so attractive to NFL teams, particularly to a team like the Philadelphia Eagles, who have made a concerted effort to build a championship-caliber roster through the draft. As Eagles general manager Howie Roseman aptly stated, Georgia players “play with an edge,” and that edge has proven to be a significant factor in their success at the NFL level.

With the continued success of Georgia’s football program under Kirby Smart, the Bulldogs will remain a primary source of talent for NFL teams, especially those looking to build with players who embody the qualities of toughness, resilience, and leadership. The Eagles’ focus on selecting Georgia players is a testament to the program’s ability to produce elite, NFL-ready talent, and it is a strategy that will likely pay dividends in future seasons as the Eagles continue their quest for another Super Bowl championship.