This 2026 Georgia defense returns a majority of its starters for what feels like the first time in years. CJ Allen, Daylen Everette, Christen Miller and JaCorey Thomas are headed to the next level, but with the rotation that Georgia runs, experienced players remain all around this side of the ball.

1. Ellis Robinson IV, CB (#1)

Towards the end of last season, Ellis Robinson IV showed flashes that provided promise from his high school ranking as the No. 1 cornerback in the nation for the class of 2024. Entering his redshirt sophomore year for the Bulldogs, Robinson IV displays elite ball skills and change of direction, with just a few issues in the penalty department. “From the time he got here, he’s got elite ball skills, elite cover ability, toughness, and a competitor,” said coach Kirby Smart. If these penalties can be limited, expect him to develop into a day one or two pick in next year’s draft.

2. Chris Cole, ILB (#9)

Chris Cole almost fits the definition of a “havoc dawg” to a tee. Cole led the team in sacks last season, and it felt like he showed up in moments where it mattered most. Cole provides visible energy to the defense. He was named to preseason All-SEC Third Team by Pick Six Previews and was named to preseason watch list for the Butkus Award.

3. Raylen Wilson, ILB (#5)

Raylen Wilson, CJ Allen’s counterpart for much of the past two seasons, decided to return for his senior season. He had the best season of his career in 2025 and has appeared in almost every game since stepping on campus. Wilson finished last season with 74 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. He was named to preseason All-SEC Third Team by Athlon.

4. KJ Bolden, DB (#4)

After starting all 14 games last season, KJ Bolden returns for his junior season as a player named to the Coaches All-SEC Second Team. Living up to the No. 1 safety prospect hype, Bolden was second on the team in tackles with 76 and had two interceptions as well as five pass break ups. He’s already been named by multiple outlets to preseason All-SEC First Team. Plus, Bolden’s been named to watchlists for the Jim Thorpe Award and the Bednarik Award.

5. Jordan Hall, DL (#44)

Jordan Hall started for a majority of last season before suffering a knee injury against Florida. Hall missed spring practice due to the same injury that put him out for the season. He’s battled with injuries for much of his college career. Yet, when on the field, Hall is disruptive, especially in the run game. He’s a big, physical defensive lineman. Hall has yet to record a sack in college. His breakout season could start now with the departure of Christen Miller.

6. Demello Jones, DB (#8)

Demello Jones enters his junior year as one of the projected starters at the cornerback position. Jones showed Bulldog fans his physicality throughout the season, most notably slamming down Texas receiver Ryan Wingo in Georgia’s matchup against the Longhorns. “I’ve seen an improvement in his maturity and his mental makeup… He’s a really good athlete and he’s stronger than the other guys,” said coach Smart.

7. Quintavius Johnson, OLB (#3)

Junior Quintavius Johnson appears as one of three outside linebackers on this list. The ability to wreak havoc at the line of scrimmage and reach the quarterback will be of the utmost importance for the Bulldogs’ defensive success in the 2026 season. Johnson started in all 14 games last season, totaling 35 tackles, including six tackles for loss and two sacks, a forced fumble and three pass break ups. He also recorded three quarterback hits. Johnson’s another name to keep an eye on as an emerging leader heading into his Junior year.

8. Elijah Griffin, DL (#90)

The former No. 1 defensive lineman in the nation, Elijah Griffin, was named to multiple media outlets’ Freshman All-American First Team lists. Appearing in all 14 games as a freshman, Griffin totaled 22 tackles, a sack and a pass break up. In addition, he forced a fumble against Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl that was returned for a 47-yard touchdown. Griffin also had a career-high four tackles in the Sugar Bowl, where he’s only continued to trend up as time has progressed.

9. Gabe Harris Jr., OLB (#0)

Gabe Harris Jr. both appeared and started in 13 games last season. His one missed game came against Ole Miss in the Sugar Bowl due to a turf toe injury. Harris Jr. had surgery to repair the injury, so he will also missed spring practice. In his time healthy last season, however, he recorded 26 tackles and a sack. The back half of last season was most dominant for Harris Jr., racking up three quarterback hurries against Georgia Tech and a tackle for loss against Alabama. All are positive signs to a dominant return from the senior outside linebacker.