A successful college football program is bound to lose coaches in the off-season. With a variety of former Georgia coaches accepting offers with new opportunities, there are plenty of new faces heading into the 2024 season. All have received nothing but praise from Georgia’s head coach. Kirby Smart emphasized the passion each of these coaches have and their ability to do great things as new coaches with the University.
Travaris Robinson (Co-Defensive Coordinator/Safeties)
Travaris Robinson is one of the most well-connected coaches in the country. Robinson is responsible for bringing countless names to any team with which he has been involved. Robinson spent his past two seasons with the Tide. Kirby Smart spoke on Robinson’s knowledge of the “SEC Blueprint,” in terms of his knowledge and relationships. Dan Jackson harped on Robinson’s energy saying, “He’s been incredible. Coach T-Rob brings the juice every day.” Taking over for Will Muschamp seems to have been a smooth transition. DB JaCorey Thomas, from Florida, has known Robinson for a while due to his time coaching at Miami. Thomas told the media that Robinson and Muschamp are practically the same person.
Donte Williams (Cornerbacks)
Former defensive back coach Fran Brown left Donte Williams with a variety of talent and maintained connections. Once Brown headed to Syracuse, Georgia quickly found his replacement in Donte Williams, who was with USC at the time of Brown’s departure. Within just a few weeks of spring drills, various corners have already mentioned how much they love Williams’ coaching techniques. Kirby Smart referenced Williams’ on-the-field presence and how he participates in some of the drills with the players. Smart said, “Yeah, I noticed that [Coach Donte Williams with a helmet on during practice] too. I don’t know if that’s legal. I hope it is, since he’s got a helmet on out there like an extra player. He may need it for safety, because some of those corners may be coming after him.” According to Julian Humphrey, the players love this energy, and it helps the players on a very personal level.
James Coley (Wide Receivers)
James Coley is a familiar face to Georgia fans. In the past, Coley spent time as both Georgia’s receivers coach and offensive coordinator. Most notably in his time at Georgia, Coley flipped five-star wide receiver George Pickens, who went on to be a star for the Dawgs. Other big names recruited by Coley at the receiver position include players like Dominick Blaylock, Kearis Jackson, Jeremiah Holloman, Riley Ridley. Coley is elite on the trail; his history speaks for itself. Since 2019, Coley spent his time on the Texas A&M staff. He coached the Aggies’ wide receivers and tight ends. In February, Kirby Smart released an official statement on Coley’s reintroduction to the team. Smart stated, “He is a tremendous teacher and leader of young men. His previous experience on our staff will make this a seamless transition.” The transition seems to be going relatively smoothly. In a recent practice viewing period, Coley was vocal to the receivers throughout drills.
Josh Crawford (Running Backs)
Josh Crawford most recently spent time as Georgia Tech’s wide receivers coach, but he will take on a new role for the Bulldogs. Crawford is filling now Georgia State head coach Dell McGee’s former role. Taking over for the legendary Dell McGee is no easy task, but Crawford’s ties will put him in a prime position, especially on the recruiting trail. Crawford’s has connections all over the Peach state.
He previously coached at: Georgia Tech, Western Kentucky, Colquitt County HS, Valdosta HS, Lee County HS, Jefferson County HS, Greater Atlanta Christian HS.
Kirby Smart mentioned that Crawford initially interviewed for the receiver coaching position but believes that this job will suit him just as well. Smart said, “I don’t think you have to be any certain position if you’re a good football coach.” Smart has been nothing but pleased with Crawford’s coaching efforts. When talking about both Crawford and CB Coach Donte Williams, Smart said, “Everything that we heard about them and the things we wanted them to come into our program for, they’re here for. I’m really proud of both those guys and how they’ve transitioned thus far.”