Following their victories over the Tennessee Vols, two former Georgia Bulldogs are dominated in their debut seasons in the NFL.

Former Georgia Bulldogs Shine in NFL Debut Seasons After Tennessee Victories

Two former University of Georgia Bulldogs have dominated in their debut seasons in the NFL, following key performances in their college careers that included victories over the Tennessee Volunteers. As the 2024 NFL season continues to unfold, these young stars are proving that their success on the field at Georgia was no fluke, making an immediate impact in the professional ranks.

From Georgia Glory to NFL Stardom

Both players, having been part of Georgia’s dominant football program, were instrumental in the Bulldogs’ success over Tennessee in their final season in college. Their performances in those games helped cement their status as first-round NFL draft prospects. Now, with the 2024 NFL season underway, these former Bulldogs are showing that their skills translate seamlessly to the professional level.

The first of these players, Jalen Carter, was a key figure in Georgia’s defense during the 2023 season. The defensive tackle was a force in Georgia’s 27-13 win over Tennessee, where he recorded two sacks and consistently disrupted the Volunteers’ offensive line. Carter’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and get to the quarterback made him a standout player in that game, and it was a preview of the impact he would soon have in the NFL.

Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Carter has already made waves in his rookie season. Known for his quick first step and exceptional strength, Carter quickly adapted to the speed and power of the NFL, becoming a key contributor to the Eagles’ defensive line. In his debut game, he tallied 5 tackles, a sack, and forced a fumble—demonstrating the same dominance he displayed in college. By midseason, Carter was already drawing comparisons to some of the league’s top interior defensive linemen, earning recognition for his ability to disrupt both the run and pass game.

Carter’s performances have already played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ defense, which has remained one of the league’s most formidable units. His consistency in pressuring the quarterback and clogging running lanes has been a major asset to his team’s success, proving that his time in Athens helped prepare him for the challenge of the NFL.

A Star on the Offensive Side: Brock Bowers

The second former Bulldog making waves in the NFL is Brock Bowers, a tight end who was a standout for Georgia in the 2023 season. Bowers’ athleticism, hands, and ability to stretch the field were on full display during Georgia’s 38-20 win over Tennessee, where he caught 7 passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns. Bowers’ performance in that game was one of his many highlights in a career that saw him become one of the most dynamic tight ends in college football.

Bowers was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, and like Carter, he has wasted no time showcasing his talents at the next level. In his first few games in the NFL, Bowers has shown incredible chemistry with his quarterback and has quickly emerged as one of the most reliable weapons in the 49ers’ offense. His ability to run routes with precision and create mismatches against defenders has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

By midseason, Bowers had already recorded multiple 100-yard games and established himself as a favorite target in the red zone. His combination of size, speed, and route-running ability is rare for a player at his position, and it’s made him one of the most exciting rookies to watch this year. His performances have drawn comparisons to some of the greats at the tight end position, and his upside seems limitless.

The Impact of Their College Success

Both Carter and Bowers have benefited from the excellent coaching and development they received at the University of Georgia. Under head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia has become a breeding ground for NFL talent, and the program’s ability to prepare players for the professional ranks has never been more evident than in the early careers of these two stars. Georgia’s intense preparation, coupled with their own natural abilities, set the foundation for their NFL success.

Their ability to step in and make an immediate impact also speaks to the high level of competition they faced in the SEC, particularly in games against teams like Tennessee. These high-pressure matchups helped mold Carter and Bowers into the players they are today, capable of thriving under the spotlight of the NFL.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, both Jalen Carter and Brock Bowers will look to build on their early success and continue their rise in the NFL. Fans of the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers alike are already seeing the potential of these two former Bulldogs, and if their debut seasons are any indication, they are poised to become stars in the league for years to come. Their dominance in their NFL debuts serves as a testament to their skill, work ethic, and the legacy of Georgia football—one that is producing some of the most exciting young talent in the NFL.