2026 No. 1 Overall Recruit Jackson Cantwell Visited by Georgia Head Coach Kirby Smart
In a highly anticipated move for the 2026 recruiting class, Jackson Cantwell, the No. 1 overall recruit, recently hosted Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart for a visit. The trip is a significant milestone in Cantwell’s recruitment, as the 6’6”, 280-pound offensive tackle continues to field attention from the top programs in college football. With a skill set that’s garnered comparisons to some of the best linemen in recent history, Cantwell’s recruitment is already drawing national attention—and Georgia’s interest only adds to the excitement.
Cantwell, who attends powerhouse St. John Bosco High School in Bellflower, California, has been a dominant force on the field since his freshman year. Known for his physicality, elite footwork, and exceptional strength, he is widely regarded as the top recruit in the class of 2026. His ability to excel both in pass protection and the run game makes him one of the most complete offensive line prospects in recent memory.
Georgia’s Interest in Cantwell
Georgia’s pursuit of Cantwell is no surprise given the Bulldogs’ track record of developing elite talent along the offensive line. Under Kirby Smart, Georgia has consistently been one of the top teams in the nation, with a reputation for building powerful, physical football teams. The program has produced several top-tier offensive linemen who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL.
Smart’s visit to Cantwell underscores Georgia’s commitment to securing top talent in the 2026 class, particularly along the offensive line. Offensive line coach Stacy Searels, who has also been heavily involved in recruiting Cantwell, has made it clear that the Bulldogs see him as a foundational piece for the future.
“Georgia is known for developing offensive linemen, and that’s something that’s really important to me,” Cantwell said after Smart’s visit. “Coach Searels and Coach Smart are both people I really respect. The way they’ve developed players at Georgia speaks for itself, and that’s something that really caught my attention.”
The Visit: A Big Step in the Recruitment Process
During Smart’s visit, he spent significant time getting to know Cantwell and his family, discussing his vision for the program, and highlighting how the young lineman could fit into Georgia’s plans moving forward. Smart’s visit was a part of his ongoing efforts to build a relationship with Cantwell, a key aspect of recruiting top-tier prospects.
“It was great getting to spend time with Coach Smart,” Cantwell said. “We talked about the program and how they do things at Georgia. I really like their culture and the family atmosphere they’ve built. I’ve heard so much about Georgia, and it was great to hear it straight from the coach himself.”
Cantwell was also able to ask Smart questions about Georgia’s football philosophy and what the program can offer him as a future player. As a top recruit, Cantwell is focused on finding a program where he can continue to grow and reach his full potential—both on the field and off.
The Recruiting Landscape
As the No. 1 overall recruit in 2026, Cantwell’s recruitment is already a highly competitive race. Programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and USC are expected to be major players in his recruitment, and his decision will have ripple effects across the college football landscape. With Georgia’s success in recruiting and developing offensive linemen, the Bulldogs are well-positioned to be a serious contender for Cantwell’s services.
However, Cantwell remains focused on the process and ensuring he finds the right fit for his future. “I’m still taking my time with this,” he said. “I’m going to weigh all my options and make sure I choose the best place for me to develop and grow as a player.”
What’s Next for Cantwell
While Cantwell still has several years of high school football ahead of him, the attention he’s receiving is only set to increase. As he continues to dominate at St. John Bosco, Cantwell will likely see more schools vying for his attention, and more visits and interactions with top programs will be on the horizon.
Georgia’s visit to see Cantwell is just the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling recruitment process. With his combination of size, skill, and athleticism, Jackson Cantwell is undoubtedly one of the most highly anticipated recruits in recent memory, and his eventual decision will send ripples through the college football world.