Another Recruiting Power Play: Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs Land Major 2026 Talent in Latest Blow to SEC Rivals
ATHENS, GA — In a move that is sending shockwaves through the Southeastern Conference, Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs have struck again — this time landing one of the crown jewels of the 2026 recruiting class: five-star linebacker Daxton “Dax” Womack out of Hoover High School in Alabama.
Womack, widely regarded as the No. 1 linebacker in the country and a consensus top-10 national recruit, announced his commitment to the Bulldogs late Wednesday night via a video posted on his Instagram. The dramatic commitment video featured Womack walking through iconic SEC stadiums before settling under the blazing lights of Sanford Stadium, with a voiceover stating, “Only the strong survive — and the strongest wear red and black.”
The commitment is more than just another blue-chip addition for Georgia — it’s a direct blow to Alabama, LSU, and Auburn, all of whom had Womack at the top of their recruiting boards. Alabama, in particular, was viewed as the frontrunner just weeks ago. But sources close to the Womack family say Georgia’s combination of championship culture, defensive pedigree, and Kirby Smart’s relentless personal involvement sealed the deal.
“This kid is a game-changer,” said 247Sports analyst Rick Bramblett. “He’s Roquan Smith with more speed. He reads offenses like a veteran and hits like a freight train. Georgia just secured the quarterback of their defense for the next decade.”
The impact of Womack’s commitment goes beyond just stats or rankings. It’s a signal — loud and clear — that Georgia is not just keeping pace in the recruiting arms race; they’re setting the tempo. Kirby Smart, already boasting the No. 1 class in 2024 and a top-three haul in 2025, is now inching closer to an unprecedented third straight top-ranked class.
With Womack on board and whispers swirling about more elite talent leaning red and black, the Dawgs aren’t just recruiting — they’re dominating.
As one SEC assistant put it anonymously: “Georgia isn’t building a dynasty. They are the dynasty now.”
