The coaching change at Alabama allowed Crimson Tide players to enter the portal and explore other choices. On Friday night, the Georgia Bulldogs benefited from this transaction by acquiring a former Crimson Tide defensive back.
Jake Pope, a former Alabama safety, has committed to Georgia. The 6-foot-1, 192-pound defensive back is still eligible for three years.
Pope made his decision public on social media, writing, “Comin’ home!!! Committed” beside a graphic of Pope sporting a Georgia jersey.
In 2023, Pope appeared in 11 games for Alabama. He usually played on special teams, but he also played defense against Kentucky and Chattanooga. He didn’t keep any statistics.
In 2022, Pope did not play as a true freshman.
Pope was a four-star prospect in the 2022 class and a standout at Buford High School. According to 247Sports, he was ranked as the No. 30 prospect in the state of Georgia and the No. 28 safety.
Pope was a varsity football player who helped the Wolves win multiple state championships. He was also a highly regarded baseball prospect. Alabama was chosen over Georgia, Notre Dame, and North Carolina.
Cooper Petagna, a national recruiting analyst for 247Sports, offered the following assessment of Pope in August 2021:
“A three-phase player, Pope has the potential to play receiver or safety at the next level.” Possesses the development potential to add weight to his body. Athleticism is seen in all three periods. Exhibits good short-area burst and explosiveness on both sides of the ball, as well as exceptional play speed. Plays with little wasted motion, coming in and out of breaks cleanly. Exhibits exceptional instincts in all three phases. On both sides of the ball, he demonstrates natural ball abilities. Displays some playmaking skills in the return game and after the catch. Special teams will feel the effects immediately. A versatile athlete who wins via instinct. “He acts bigger than he is.”
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