One of the biggest stories of the Georgia Bulldogs’ offseason has to do with the fact that the defense lost almost all of its starters to the NFL this past April. In a record-setting draft for the University of Georgia, the team lost 8 defensive starters. After having what some call “generational” production in 2021, Georgia’s defense returns only a few major contributors and has to deal with the reality of replacing extraordinary talent like Jordan Davis, Travon Walker, and Devonte Wyatt. This reality has given some fans doubt going into this new season, but senior defensive lineman Zion Logue doesn’t think it should.
After being asked about how he felt having to replace the talent lost in the 2022 NFL Draft, Logue said, “I don’t question our talent at all. I feel like we have everything we need in our room to go be a championship caliber team.”
While Logue’s words could sound like fodder to a casual observer, he’s not wrong. The Dawgs return 3 potential 1st round NFL Draft picks in Jalen Carter, Kelee Ringo, and Nolan Smith. Carter, who plays next to Logue in the trenches, was described as a “strong enforcer” and someone who’s “not going to be blocked.” Logue is glad to be playing next to him, saying, “We piggyback off each other.”
Logue spoke about more than just established talent, shifting the conversation to second-year linebacker Smael Mondon. “He needs time to go out there and be that leader, be that vocal guy. So within time in this camp I feel he will.” Mondon’s stock has risen since Smart praised his athleticism at the beginning of fall camp. For the team’s sake, it’s important he gets to where they need him to be, especially with how success of the defense was oftentimes reliant on the success of its linebackers in Georgia’s 2021 defensive campaign.
Zion Logue’s input shouldn’t go unnoticed. Originally hailing from Tennessee, this fourth-year defender has come a long way in all senses of the phrase. Coach Smart hasn’t been shy about applauding Logue’s development as both a player and a young man in his time in Athens. Going into what will now be his fourth year on the team, he’s grown into a leadership role that wouldn’t be expected of his freshman or sophomore self. Long story short, if Zion Logue is saying something about this team, fans should definitely be listening, and he says this defense isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.