JUST IN: Elite 5-Star Defensive Weapon Has Said “YES” To Joining Georgia Football Over SEC Power Houses

The Georgia Bulldogs are battling with nine other programs for one of the greatest defensive players in the 2026 recruiting class, but their chances of securing a significant commitment improved this week. James Johnson (Cape Coral, Fla.), a four-star defensive lineman from North Fort Meyers, will visit Georgia on June 20.

That will be his final official visit, which is not a terrible thing for the Bulldogs. On the contrary, Johnson told On3 that Georgia is leading the highly competitive competition for his services. Tray Scott, the defensive line coach, deserves credit for his team’s rise to the top of the rankings. “I like coach Scott a lot and coach Smart is a big reason why Georgia is on top too,” Johnson explained to On3. “Georgia develops a lot of players, especially on the defensive line and I learned a lot about coach Scott, the scheme and how I could fit in when I was on the visit in January.” I wasn’t really fond of Georgia before to my vacation. Coach Scott actively recruited me, so I went up there, and that visit changed everything. I saw plenty of Georgia. They have a lot to offer in terms of business, football, and post-football life. “The people are also genuine.”

Johnson also plans to visit the Colorado Buffaloes, Miami Hurricanes, Syracuse Orange, USC Trojans, Florida Gators, and Penn State Nittany Lions. Georgia is his current preference, which is surprising given On3’s industry ranking, which gives the fourth-ranked defensive lineman a 33.9 percent probability of joining the Gators. But Georgia’s track record has certainly influenced him.

The Bulldogs have had five defensive linemen selected in the first round over the last three selections, and Mikel Williams is expected to join that list in 2025. Jalon Walker, a linebacker whose best performance came as an edge rusher last season, figures to be a lock for the top 10. Johnson has been impressed by the coaching staff and their history. It is now up to the Bulldogs to persuade him to become their next great defensive lineman and secure his commitment.