This year’s NFL Draft featured seven Georgia players selected (two in the first round), along with a vast number of players signing un-drafted free agent contracts. One Georgia player that surprisingly didn’t hear his name called was safety J.R. Reed.
Reed came back for his senior season in Athens and helped the Bulldogs to a Sugar Bowl victory. Reed had an incredible season, being named a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award which is given to the best defensive back in the nation. On top of that, Reed was also named a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy which is awarded to the best defensive player in college football.
Although he didn’t hear his name called on draft day, Reed quickly picked up an offer from the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he signed an un-drafted free agent contract.
With the 2020 NFL Draft coming to a close on Saturday, the focus has already shifted to next year’s draft.
Looking ahead, Sporting News has already released their 2021 NFL Draft prospect top-50 and position rankings.
On that list at #12 overall sits Georgia safety Richard LeCounte.
Last season, LeCounte accounted for 4 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles and 3 fumble recoveries.
LeCounte’s play has been turning heads and is already predicted to go in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He is Sporting News’ #1 safety available for next year
Sporting News on LeCounte:
“LeCounte averages 50 tackles per season the last three years with the Bulldogs, and he created seven turnovers (four interceptions, three fumble recoveries). The 5-11, 190-pound playmaker is the top safety on the board.”
Other Bulldogs that made the top-50 include incoming transfer quarterback Jamie Newman at #29, cornerback Tyson Campbell at #35 and center Trey Hill at #43.
