Georgia Bulldogs ‘heavily in the mix’ to land a Freshman All-American in the transfer portal

The Georgia Bulldogs could be adding an All-American to their defensive line via the NCAA transfer portal.  "On3's Hayes Fawcett reports that the Bulldogs are one of four schools that are "heavily in the mix" to land Syracuse transfer star defener Maraad Watson.   "NEWS: Four schools are heavily in the mix for Syracuse standout transfer […]

Kelsey Kramer College Football & NFL Trending News Writer
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Georgia coach Kirby Smart looks on during the first half of the SEC championship game against Texas in Atlanta, on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024.
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The Georgia Bulldogs could be adding an All-American to their defensive line via the NCAA transfer portal. 

"On3's Hayes Fawcett reports that the Bulldogs are one of four schools that are "heavily in the mix" to land Syracuse transfer star defener Maraad Watson.  

"NEWS: Four schools are heavily in the mix for Syracuse standout transfer DL Maraad Watson, a source tells @on3sports," Fawcett wrote on X/Twitter on Saturday afternoon. 

"Texas, Georgia, Ohio State, & Tennessee are the schools to watch for the Freshman All-American. Totaled 31 Tackles and 1 Sack last season."

Watson had a standout freshman season in 2024 as a defensive lineman for the Syracuse Orange. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 313 pounds, the Irvington, New Jersey native played in all 13 games, starting 11 of them. He recorded 31 total tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and one sack. Additionally, he contributed one pass breakup and a QB hurry. His outstanding performance earned him Freshman All-American honors from 247Sports. 

Despite his success, Watson entered the transfer portal in April 2025, a move that surprised many, given his significant role on Cuse's defense. 

While Georgia has to compete with three other powerhouse schools, don't doubt them pursuing Watson aggressively. 

Watson was immeditalty considered a top target on Georgia's radar when the portal opened on Wednesday, April 16, because he fits exactly what they need—more depth and experience up front on the defensive line. He’s already shown he can hold it down in the middle and mess with opposing offenses, which would make him a solid piece in the Bulldogs' D-line rotation. 


Georgia Bulldogs Who Recently Entered the NCAA Transfer Portal

  • RB Branson Robinson: The running back entered the transfer portal during the spring window, seeking new opportunities. ​
  • WR Nitro Tuggle: The sophomore wide receiver entered the portal on April 17, 2025, after appearing in several games but not recording a single catch. ​
  • WR Michael Jackson III: The senior wide receiver entered the transfer portal on December 10, 2024, after transferring from USC but not securing a significant role at Georgia. ​
  • CB Julian Humphrey: The redshirt freshman cornerback entered the portal on December 10, 2024, exploring options for the next phase of his career. ​