The Georgia Bulldogs had a glaring problem in 2025. A team known for its defensive prowess under Kirby Smart was 115th in the country in sacks per game, an uncharacteristic mark for a program that prides itself on getting after the quarterback. It’s been assumed that Smart would figure it out, and based on early fall camp reports, two linebackers could be critical to that improvement.

The first is junior Chris Cole, who has been dominant during fall camp. Per Jordan D. Hill of Dawgs247, Cole has been unblockable this preseason. 

“I’ve had sources tell me that Georgia simply cannot block Cole during camp,” Hill noted. “The junior is flying to the football play after play and looks ready to be a menace in the backfield yet again.”

Cole finished last season with 60 tackles and 4.5 sacks, and his athletic profile makes him a potential Arvell Reese-type weapon who can wreak havoc on offenses. If he plays to his potential, that would be massive for Georgia’s pass rush, which desperately needs a consistent disruptor off the edge.

Chase Linton could provide a critical second wave

The other defender Hill referenced was former four-star pass rusher Chase Linton. While Quintavius Johnson is set for a potential leap this year, the player behind him on the depth chart should be able to make some noise as well.

“Linton had a strong spring practice and has followed that up with an impressive camp to date,” Hill revealed. “The second-year outside linebacker is positioned to be the next man up behind Johnson.”

Linton has yet to contribute in a meaningful role. He doesn’t have any notable stats from 2025, but the talent is there. A former four-star recruit stepping into a larger role in his second year is exactly the type of development Smart’s program has built its reputation on.

What this means for the Bulldogs’ defense

Georgia’s defensive struggles in the sack column last season were an anomaly, not a trend. Smart-coached defenses have historically been among the most feared in college football, and a return to form in 2026 feels inevitable if these camp reports hold weight. Cole providing a reliable pass-rushing force alongside Johnson, with Linton as a capable rotational piece, would give the Bulldogs the kind of depth they lacked a year ago.

If both of these defenders can step up, Georgia’s defense will be really scary in 2026. Hopefully, the fall camp buzz translates to the regular season, because when the Bulldogs are getting after the quarterback, they’re one of the toughest teams in the country to beat.