Georgia's Kirby Smart on why Bulldogs favor high school recruiting over the portal
In the world of college football, where experience often reigns supreme, Kirby Smart, head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, has taken a unique approach. Despite the success of other programs that have embraced the transfer portal, Smart is sticking to his guns and prioritizing high school recruiting. This strategy has resulted in a youthful roster, with an average age of 19.81, which might seem risky in a sport where experience is highly valued.
However, Smart's philosophy is rooted in a belief in the high school model and a commitment to developing his own recruits. He argues that investing in his players is more beneficial than acquiring experienced transfers from other programs. This approach has allowed Georgia to retain a significant portion of its 2025 and 2024 recruiting classes, including several five-star prospects.
Smart's decision to prioritize high school recruiting is not without its challenges. The Bulldogs have faced some slippage in recent seasons, with their 2026 class ranking 12th nationally and missing out on some top targets. Additionally, this year's freshman class ranked sixth, the lowest since Smart's inaugural season. Despite these setbacks, Smart remains steadfast in his approach, emphasizing that access to money is not the primary factor in his decision-making process.
What makes Smart's strategy particularly fascinating is his emphasis on culture and ethics. He believes that encouraging players to leave is not always the right approach and that retaining players is a more ethical and morally sound strategy. This perspective is a refreshing take on the transfer portal, which is often seen as a quick fix for coaching changes and poor seasons.
In my opinion, Smart's approach is a testament to his long-term vision and commitment to building a sustainable program. While it may not yield immediate results, his strategy is likely to pay dividends in the future, as he continues to develop his own recruits and foster a strong culture within the program. As he enters his 11th season, Smart's leadership and strategic vision will be crucial in determining the Bulldogs' success on the field.
