Super Bowl 2025: For the 24th consecutive year, a former Georgia football player will participate in the Super Bowl

The University of Georgia’s (UGA) contribution to the NFL over the past few decades has become a cornerstone of the school’s football identity. As the streak of former players participating in the Super Bowl reaches its 24th consecutive year in 2025, it is clear that Georgia football’s legacy has transcended the collegiate level and become a key part of the professional football landscape. This ongoing success in the NFL has solidified Georgia’s place among the elite college football programs that produce top-tier talent year after year.

The Evolution of the UGA Pipeline to the NFL

To fully appreciate the significance of UGA’s streak, it is essential to consider the history of the university’s football program and how it has evolved into a powerhouse for NFL talent. UGA’s football program dates back over 100 years and has long been known for producing NFL-caliber players. The university’s consistent success at the collegiate level — including national championships, SEC titles, and a reputation for strong, hard-hitting defense — laid the foundation for its players’ smooth transition to the pros.

The turning point for UGA’s NFL success came in the late 1990s and early 2000s when the program’s recruiting began to consistently land elite athletes. Under coaches like Jim Donnan and later Mark Richt, Georgia consistently attracted top high school talent, many of whom would go on to become NFL stars. By the time the 2000s rolled around, the university had established a reputation for producing some of the most physically gifted players in the country. The year 2002 marked the beginning of the Super Bowl streak with Richard Seymour’s dominant presence for the New England Patriots.

Breaking Down the Super Bowl 2025 Contributions

The 2025 Super Bowl — Super Bowl LIX — was yet another showcase of Georgia’s impact on the NFL. Let’s delve deeper into the contributions of former UGA players from the two teams, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles were an excellent representation of Georgia’s ongoing football prowess. Five former Bulldogs were key contributors to the Eagles’ success, and their presence in the Super Bowl spoke to the elite level of talent that Georgia continues to produce.

• Jalen Carter (Defensive Tackle): As a defensive force for the Eagles, Jalen Carter made an instant impression in his rookie season. At UGA, Carter was a dominant defensive presence who helped lead the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships. In the 2024 season, Carter’s ability to disrupt the pocket and control the line of scrimmage was crucial for the Eagles’ defense. His efforts in the Super Bowl were pivotal in limiting the Chiefs’ offensive efficiency, especially in critical moments of the game.
• Nolan Smith (Outside Linebacker): A standout in Georgia’s national title-winning defense, Nolan Smith’s transition to the NFL was smooth. Smith’s versatility allowed the Eagles to use him in various roles, whether as an edge rusher or as a linebacker. His ability to pressure the quarterback was invaluable, and his coverage skills allowed the Eagles’ defense to excel in both run support and pass defense.
• Jordan Davis (Defensive Tackle): Davis, a physical specimen and one of the key players in Georgia’s championship defense, brought his strength and size to the Eagles’ defensive line. Davis’ primary responsibility was to stop the run, and his sheer size and athleticism made him a valuable asset to the Eagles’ defense. He played an essential role in clogging running lanes and forcing the Chiefs into passing situations where the Eagles’ pass rush could shine.
• Kelee Ringo (Cornerback/Special Teams): Ringo was one of the most highly touted defensive backs in Georgia’s storied history. His size, speed, and ability to lock down receivers made him a key contributor in the Eagles’ secondary. Ringo’s impact extended beyond defense, as he also contributed on special teams, making a number of crucial tackles and adding depth to a talented unit. His coverage skills were put to the test during the Super Bowl, where he played an integral role in limiting the Chiefs’ passing game.
• Lewis Cine (Safety): Although Cine had a smaller role in the Eagles’ defense during the Super Bowl, his arrival on the roster in 2025 bolstered the secondary’s depth. Cine’s ability to play as a hybrid safety, offering both support in the passing game and in run defense, was a valuable asset. His experience with Georgia’s defense and championship pedigree made him a trusted contributor in critical moments.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs had one representative from UGA — Malik Herring — whose story of perseverance and growth embodies the spirit of Georgia football. Herring’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl player serves as an inspiration for many young athletes hoping to make their mark in the NFL.

• Malik Herring (Defensive End): After playing a significant role on Georgia’s 2021 national championship-winning team, Herring’s time with the Chiefs was marked by steady improvement. His ability to provide depth to the Chiefs’ defensive line was invaluable, particularly as he found his footing in the NFL. Herring’s versatility to play both inside and outside on the defensive line allowed Kansas City to rotate their defensive line to maintain fresh legs. In the Super Bowl, Herring’s performance helped create pressure on the Eagles’ quarterback, limiting their opportunities in critical moments.

UGA’s Legacy in the NFL

The fact that former Georgia players continue to play such prominent roles in the NFL speaks to the consistent level of coaching, preparation, and development they receive while in Athens. With renowned coaches like Kirby Smart at the helm, UGA has elevated its program to new heights, becoming a primary feeder for NFL talent.

Georgia’s ongoing success in producing NFL-ready players has made them a go-to program for teams looking to add tough, reliable, and skilled players to their rosters. The school’s emphasis on defense, athleticism, and leadership translates well to the NFL, and Georgia continues to send players who make an immediate impact at the highest level of competition.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, UGA’s pipeline of NFL talent is showing no signs of slowing down. With recruiting classes consistently ranked among the best in the country and the Bulldogs regularly contending for national championships, the future of Georgia football in the NFL seems bright.

Top-tier players like Brock Bowers, Mikel Williams, and others are expected to follow in the footsteps of their predecessors and make an immediate impact in the NFL. As UGA continues to produce top-flight athletes, the streak of Bulldogs in the Super Bowl will likely continue well into the future.

The impact of Georgia football on the NFL is undeniable, and the Super Bowl 2025 serves as a reminder of the program’s ability to produce some of the most talented and respected players in the league. As UGA continues to develop and refine its players, the university’s legacy in professional football will only continue to grow, making the Bulldogs a key presence in future Super Bowls for years to come.

This ongoing streak of 24 consecutive years of former Georgia players in the Super Bowl is a testament to the quality, consistency, and excellence of the program and the elite athletes it cultivates. The presence of these Bulldogs on the grandest stage in professional football ensures that UGA’s influence on the game will remain strong for years to come.