Georgia Football: 3 monumental juniors who must stay for their final year

Georgia football remains on course for a historic season. Still, to continue that success moving forward, the Dawgs need some of their upperclassmen who have eligibility left to stay and help lead next year’s team to remain on the path of greatness.

We mentioned six leaders earlier in the season who should stay, but these are three juniors who have either proven themselves quality leaders or just haven’t quite had enough time on the field this season to showcase what they can do.

If a national championship is the goal, would it be so unrealistic if players who have helped lead Georgia to a 12-1 record and Playoff spot use this season to propel themselves into a new career in pro-football?

Georgia football needs these three juniors to return for their final season.

In recent years, players have been tempted to enter the NFL Draft process as soon as they become eligible. Who can blame them? Student-athletes make extreme sacrifices to pursue their dreams of a career in pro-football.

However, there are compelling reasons why this year’s junior class at Georgia, well, at least some of that group, should consider staying in Athens for one more year.

Head Coach Kirby Smart is building a lasting legacy and is on the brink of achieving true greatness. While a career in pro football is the end game for these players, a lasting legacy with your alma mater for some will be worth much more.

Secondly, the introduction of NIL is a game-changer for players who want to stay in school but can’t afford to do so. The lack of payment was another reason guys jumped at the chance to leave, but with so many NIL deals circling now, that should help keep kids in college longer.

Name and image likeness will be the single biggest factor in keeping juniors at school for their final year.

Let’s look at three players who could jump to the NFL but who need to stay one more year at Georgia.