Recruiting elite safeties has become a hallmark of Kirby Smart’s program, and Georgia’s pursuit of top-tier talent remains relentless. In December 2023, the Bulldogs pulled off a major victory by flipping five‑star safety K.J. Bolden from Florida State. Bolden, the nation’s No. 1 safety and 12th overall in the ESPN 300, chose to stay home and sign with UGA—a coup that capped off the No. 1 class in the country . Standing 6‑foot, 185 pounds out of Buford HS, Bolden brings elite athleticism, instincts, and versatility—attributes that immediately position him as a cornerstone in Georgia’s secondary .
Bolden’s commitment wasn’t just about rankings—it was the culmination of a multi-year push. Georgia had recruited him intensively, and despite his initial commitment to FSU—his “dream school”—he remained receptive to Georgia’s overtures right up to signing day . His speed and playmaking ability, showcased on film and in track workouts, fit perfectly into Kirby Smart’s flexible defensive schemes.
Looking ahead, Georgia isn’t stopping there. They’ve also targeted DJ Pickett, a 6‑foot‑2, 170‑lb five‑star from Zephyrhills, Florida and the No. 6 overall prospect in the 2025 class. Pickett recently included Georgia among his final five schools, underscoring UGA’s growing pull at the position . Pickett’s blend of range, ball skills, and elite track speed complement Bolden’s physical style, and their potential tandem would give Georgia arguably the most talented safety duo in the SEC.
Still, Georgia faces turnover in their secondary. With veterans like Malaki Starks (a former 5‑star and consensus All‑American who’s entering the NFL) departing, new talent must step in. Bolden is expected to absorb significant snaps early on, aiming to stabilize the position post‑Starks . Meanwhile, if Pickett commits, he’d enter a room with clear pathways to playing time and impactful roles.
These efforts are underpinned by Georgia’s commitment to building through recruiting and developing defensive back talent. With transfer additions like Zion Branch and Adrian Maddox also adding experience, the stage is set for Georgia’s safety spot to remain a strength .
—
Bottom line: Georgia’s acquisition of K.J. Bolden and pursuit of DJ Pickett signal a deliberate strategy to reload at safety with elite, in‑state and fringed national prospects. Bolden will be poised for immediate impact, and if Pickett lands in Athens too, Georgia could field one of the most dynamic safety tandems in the country—continuing their defensive dominance under Smart.