Rising redshirt sophomore Matt Landers has flown under the radar for Georgia football, but Mecole Hardman believes he can be the next star receiver.
With four wide receivers departing Georgia football, a fresh face is almost certain to pop up and become a star this coming season. To this point, this discussion has centered around newcomers Dominick Blaylock and George Pickens, transfer Demetris Robertson, and rising sophomores Tommy Bush and Kearis Jackson. But when asked about Georgia’s upcoming stable or receivers, Mecole Hardman threw another name onto the list; redshirt sophomore Matt Landers.
"“Matt Landers… I believe if he gets in right and gets the playbook down, you will have his name called a lot on Saturdays.”"
Hardman went on to state returning contributors J.J. Holloman and Tyler Simmons as receivers who’ll shine in 2019. But for Landers, this is a huge endorsement (excuse the hyperbole). Landers wasn’t an attention grabbing name when he signed with the Dawgs back in 2017. On that class, he was the fourth best receiver behind Holloman, Mark Webb (who has since moved to defensive back) and Trey Blount. 247Sports Composite rated Landers as a three-star prospect, ranking him no. 680 overall and no. 63 out of wide receivers.
But Hardman’s endorsement isn’t the first of Landers time in Athens. Back in 2017, when Landers redshirted, head coach Kirby Smart raved about his performance on the scout team. Smart called Landers at the time, a “force to be reckoned with.”
"“He’s been good. He likes practicing. He goes up and makes plays. He competes with those corners. He’s got great length. He enjoys that part of it.”"
Javon Wims and Riley Ridley have also praised Landers’ potential in the past. If he can do as Hardman says, Landers will be a weapon on Georgia’s offense. At 6-5 and nearly 190 pounds, not many defensive backs can match up with him physically. His potential hinges on how he improves as a blocker and a route runner.
Georgia fans won’t have to wait long to see Landers in action. Spring practices begin later this month and the G-Day Game is less than two months away. In last year’s G-Day Game, Landers caught one touchdown pass.