Nolan Smith Discusses the Benefits of Playing With Former Teammates
During his four years at the University of Georgia, linebacker Nolan Smith developed a handful of strong connections as one of the vocal leaders on Georgia's defense. His leadership and work ethic allowed for him to become a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. But while Smith will be working hard to build a name for himself as a professional, building relationships with his new teammates in Philadelphia won’t be nearly as tough a challenge.
Smith has of course joined a slew of former Bulldogs on the Philadelphia Eagles this season, many of which he played with during the previous two seasons. Earlier this week, the first-round pick sat down with Eagles great and Super Bowl LII winner Chris Long on the “Green Light” podcast to discuss how he felt about playing with so many former teammates.
"You know, I was excited. I get to be with some of my brothers, some of my guys that I've already won with and already have a previous connection with. Coach Sirianni says it all the time 'We're trying to build a connection here'. And I just feel like, once you have that already, you can push the envelope a little more. Like, me and JD (Jordan Davis) could go a little bit harder or I can say 'Come on JD, let's get another workout in.'"
-Nolan Smith
Smith and Davis (along with others) were a major part of the Bulldogs' legendary 2021 defense which held opponents to just 10.2 points per game and helped the Bulldogs win their first national title in 41 years. Davis and fellow linebacker Nakobe Dean would be selected by the Eagles during the 2022 NFL Draft. While Smith remained at UGA to help the Bulldogs win their second straight national title.
Nolan Smith with the 2023 national championship trophy after the Georgia Bulldogs defeated TCU by a score of 65-7
Smith and others will be utilizing their past connections in hopes to enhance an Eagles defense that was one of the best in the NFL last season and eventually led their team to an appearance in Super Bowl LVII.
Other Georgia News:
- Kirby Smart Still Undecided on the Theme for 2023 Season
- Former Dawg Talks Stetson Bennett, Why he Loves the Two-Time Champ
- FIRST LOOK: Stetson Bennett in a Rams Uniform
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