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WATCH: New 4-star Georgia pledge Chris Cole's junior highlights

On3 imageby: Jake Rowe09/10/23JakeMRowe

Georgia added its 27th commitment of the 2023 class on Sunday when Salem (Salem, Va.) linebacker Chris Cole chose the Bulldogs over Tennessee, USC, Miami, Penn State, and Virginia Tech. He became UGA’s third linebacker pledge of the 2023 class, one that ranks No. 1 in the nation per the On3 Industry ranking.

He has been a major target for inside linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann for over year at this point and there’s a reason why. His junior film shows a prototypical modern linebacker who can play in space, rush the passer, and cover.

Cole took an official visit to Tennessee this weekend. He ended his official visit in Knoxville on Sunday morning and returned home in time to commit to the Bulldogs. Georgia also survived a late official visit to USC, a trip he took last weekend.

On3 Evaluation for Chris Cole

At 6-foot-3 210 pounds, Cole is the nation’s No. 54 overall prospect per the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that includes all four recruiting services. He’s also the nation’s No. 5 linebacker and the top prospect in Virginia.

“Big-framed, toolsy linebacker with some of the highest physical upside at the position in the 2024 cycle. Measured in at around 6-foot-3, 210 pounds prior to his senior season. Has a long, high-hipped build with a big frame and plus length for the position. Arms have measured at 33 inches and hand checks in at over 10 inches. Registers as a top athlete in the combine setting. Doubles as a good track athlete with some impressive marks in the 55-meter hurdles.

“Cole began his high school career as a safety before adding considerable mass and growing into a linebacker. Lines up at various spots in the back half for his high school – playing as a hang linebacker, a center field safety and creeping up to the edge. Experienced playing in space. Effectively uses his long arms to corral ball carriers. Lowers his shoulder and drives through his tackles. Flashes some striking power and pop on contact. Also shows solid instincts in coverage. Finished his senior season with 76 tackles and 11 tackles for loss. Also showed some encouraging coordination while playing receiver. A long-strider who can take a few steps to get up to speed. Will need to continue developing and adjusting to playing linebacker. May need time to adjust, but has considerable developmental upside.”

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