The University of Georgia football program continues to flex its recruiting muscles, landing a commitment from highly touted 4-star EDGE rusher Chase Linton. The announcement, made on Wednesday afternoon, solidifies Georgia’s reputation as a premier destination for top defensive talent under head coach Kirby Smart.
Linton, a 6’4”, 240-pound standout from Jacksonville, Florida, chose Georgia over a slew of other top programs, including Alabama, Florida State, and Ohio State. His commitment marks another significant win for the Bulldogs on the recruiting trail, as they continue to reload their defense with elite talent.
Chase Linton has made a name for himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in the 2025 recruiting class. Known for his explosiveness off the line, excellent hand technique, and relentless motor, Linton has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks throughout his high school career.
In his junior season at Trinity Christian Academy, Linton racked up 16.5 sacks, 25 tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles, earning him All-State honors. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield and pressure quarterbacks is exactly what Georgia values in its defensive scheme.
Analysts project Linton as an immediate-impact player at the collegiate level, with the potential to become a cornerstone of Georgia’s defensive line. His athleticism and versatility allow him to play multiple roles in the Bulldogs’ defense, whether as a stand-up EDGE rusher or with his hand in the dirt in a more traditional defensive end role.
Linton’s decision to commit to Georgia reflects the program’s continued dominance in recruiting top-tier defensive talent. After his official visit to Athens earlier this year, Linton spoke highly of the program’s culture, coaching staff, and winning tradition.
“Georgia just felt like home,” Linton said during his announcement. “The coaching staff is incredible, and they know how to develop players to reach their full potential. Playing for a program that competes for championships every year is a dream come true.”
A major factor in Linton’s commitment was the opportunity to work under Kirby Smart and defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann. Georgia has built a reputation for developing defensive stars, with recent NFL draftees like Travon Walker, Jalen Carter, and Nakobe Dean serving as prime examples of the Bulldogs’ ability to groom talent for the next level.
“I’ve seen what Coach Smart and his staff have done with guys like Travon Walker and Nolan Smith,” Linton added. “They have a proven track record of preparing players for the NFL, and I want to be a part of that tradition.”
Linton’s commitment is a significant addition to Georgia’s 2025 recruiting class, which is already shaping up to be one of the best in the country. His decision reinforces the Bulldogs’ dominance in the Southeast and highlights their ability to fend off other powerhouse programs for elite talent.
With Linton on board, Georgia’s recruiting class now boasts multiple top-100 players, strengthening their already formidable defensive pipeline. His commitment is likely to have a ripple effect, potentially influencing other top prospects to consider Georgia as their destination.
Linton’s skill set aligns perfectly with Georgia’s defensive philosophy, which emphasizes physicality, discipline, and versatility. As a pass rusher, he brings the speed and power necessary to disrupt even the most well-oiled offenses. His ability to drop back in coverage or set the edge against the run adds another layer to his game, making him a valuable asset in Georgia’s multiple-front defense.
With Georgia transitioning to life after stars like Nolan Smith and Robert Beal Jr., Linton’s arrival will ensure the Bulldogs maintain their dominance in the trenches. His commitment also adds depth and competition to a position group that has been instrumental in Georgia’s back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022
Now that his commitment is official, Chase Linton plans to focus on finishing his senior season strong and preparing for the next chapter of his football journey. He’s expected to enroll early at Georgia, which will give him a head start on learning the playbook and adjusting to the speed of the college game.
Georgia fans are already buzzing about Linton’s potential, and his commitment only adds to the excitement surrounding the program’s future. As the Bulldogs aim for another national title, the addition of a player like Linton ensures that their defense will remain a dominant force for years to come.
Chase Linton’s commitment to Georgia is a massive win for Kirby Smart and his staff, reinforcing the Bulldogs’ status as a recruiting powerhouse. With his elite skills and relentless work ethic, Linton has the potential to become a game-changer for Georgia’s defense.
As he prepares to join the Bulldogs, one thing is clear: the rich get richer, and Georgia’s defense isn’t going anywhere. Welcome to Athens, Chase Linton—the future of Georgia football looks brighter than ever.