On Wednesday, Georgia's 2025 Pro Day provided an invaluable stage for aspiring NFL athletes to exhibit their skills in front of numerous scouts and coaching staff at the university’s indoor training center. While the event spotlighted potential professional talent, head coach Kirby Smart kept his focus firmly on the upcoming season's roster. In contrast to past years where he celebrated outgoing players, this time Smart directed his attention toward the returning team members who must reclaim their competitive spirit following a tough 2024 season.
Georgia concluded the previous year with an impressive 11-3 record, securing the SEC championship but falling short in the College Football Playoff semifinals against Notre Dame. Speaking frankly before the event, Smart expressed concerns about maintaining motivation and discipline within the squad, noting distractions beyond football that might have affected some players. Despite his forward-looking mindset, Smart acknowledged the importance of supporting those pursuing professional careers, recognizing their contributions to the university's historic success.
Safety Dan Jackson made waves early in the day with a swift 4.46-second 40-yard dash and an impressive 10-foot-3 broad jump, followed by a 34-inch vertical leap. These numbers would have ranked highly among safeties at the NFL Combine, showcasing his athleticism despite being overlooked for the prestigious event. Former walk-on Jackson leveraged the opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities, reflecting the perseverance that endeared him to fans throughout his collegiate tenure.
Linebacker Chaz Chambliss similarly impressed with a 32-inch vertical jump and leading the bench press with 30 repetitions, earning significant praise from attending scouts. "It was crucial to display my abilities," Chambliss remarked after completing his drills, emphasizing seizing every chance presented during the event. Other Bulldogs contributed quietly yet effectively through various drills and workouts, capturing scouts' interest in how they managed challenges under pressure.
As the day concluded, 16 Bulldogs provided fresh data points for evaluation by NFL teams. Coach Smart remained visibly engaged, congratulating participants who solidified their draft prospects. Highlighting the values he seeks in players, Smart reiterated the significance of passion for the game over external financial incentives, reinforcing his commitment to building a championship-caliber team centered around dedication and excellence.