Corey Howard is a 3‑star edge rusher in Georgia’s 2026 class. He stands out at 6’6″ and 235 lb, showcasing elite size and reach on the outside. His frame, high motor, and athletic strides immediately caught Georgia’s scouts’ attention at the 2025 Spring Jamboree Showcase in Valdosta (recruitgeorgia.com, on3.com).
Recruitment Journey
Howard’s recruitment accelerated during the spring of 2025. Originally gaining traction after moving from Tift County to Valdosta, he quickly earned offers from Florida and Georgia (on3.com). His official visit to Florida—accompanied by notable conversations with Gators coaches—cemented Florida as a serious contender early on (si.com).
A Heated Recruiting Battle
In early June, press reports highlighted Howard’s narrowing choice between Georgia and Florida, noting his official visit to Florida in late May (si.com). Gators head coach Billy Napier and position coach Mike Peterson showed considerable interest, viewing him as a stand-up “F” edge rusher—a key schematic fit in their lineup (si.com).
Why Georgia Won
Despite Florida’s push, Georgia’s appeal lay in its familiarity and scheme fit:
ment – Valdosta’s defense mirrors Georgia’s 3‑4 veil, coached by former UT/Pruitt associate Shelton Felton (si.com).
Georgian Pipeline – Staying in-state reduces upheaval and builds upon his local connections and roots.
Program Success – Georgia’s recent dominance and national titles under Kirby Smart make it a magnet for top defensive talent.
Bigger Defensive Strategy
Georgia’s defensive recruiting for 2026 isn’t just about Howard. The Bulldogs are reinforcing all levels of their defense:
DL & EDGEs: Alongside Howard, they’re pursuing in-state talent like Earnest Rankins (DL), Tyson Bacon (DL), and four-star junior-college transfer Seven Cloud (DL) (ajc.com).
Front-Five Depth: They’re keeping tabs on top prospects at OL, DL, and edge to maintain SEC dominance.
This recruiting depth demonstrates Georgia’s “build from the trenches” philosophy—prioritizing size, strength, and length .
Connection to In-State Success
Kirby Smart is continuing a proven pattern: Georgia is on pace to sign more in-state players in 2026 than any class since Vince Dooley’s heyday. Howard adds to the pipeline of Peach State talent, reinforcing the homegrown pipeline
Raw Movement + Elite Frame
At 6’6″, Howard’s wingspan provides natural pass-rushing leverage. His movement patterns—especially his initial burst and bend around edges—were assets long before Georgia came calling .
maximize his potentiaSystem Fit
Valdosta runs a stand-up edge to 4-technique model identical to Georgia’s 3‑4 scheme—featuring stand-up “F” roles and 4‑down linemen . Howard already fits the mold Kirby Smart covets.
Immediate and Long-Term Rotation
Though still growing, his length and athleticism could see valuable early snaps, perhaps rotated in on passing downs as he refines his technique.
Succession Planning
Georgia is anticipating departures of key EDGE & DL players (some potentially heading to the NFL after 2025). Howard, with his size and scheme experience, is a natural fit to work into that contingent
Training Environment
His Valdosta background—a high school known for producing college-ready talent—prepares him well for Georgia’s intense developmental system and physicality.
2028 momentum.Local Talent Race
Historically, Georgia has surged ahead in securing top in-state prospects—Howard’s commitment underscores that trend
Developmental Path
During his freshman year, Howard will likely spend time in Georgia’s rotation as a situational rusher, honing his skill set, conditioning, and physical maturity.
Future Offers & Recruiting Victories
Georgia’s prestige could bring in more FBS and Power 5 attention to other local prospects, as success begets success in the hot recruiting landscape.
Media & Fan Spotlight
While not a top-ranked recruit, his frame and growth trajectory will keep him on fan radars, especially if he flashes in G-Day scrimmages or fall camp.
SEC Edge Pressure Arms Race
Amid an era of spread offenses in the SEC, pass rush talent is at a premium. Securing Howard adds to Georgia’s pass-rush arsenal in a conference loaded with high-volume attacks.Nationwide Recruiting Significance
If Howard develops into a multi-year depth piece, Georgia’s decision to commit early to physical freaks, even 3-star ones, validates their “process-over-rank” philosophy. They’ve shown it works—see defensive dynasty of the late 2010s.
Spring Showcase Reactions
Valdosta coaches and analysts said, “Corey Howard is a new name to know,” calling attention to his combination of height, movement, and mindse
Florida SI Notes
Florida insiders echoed the urgency: Howard’s 6’6″ frame and positional potential put Florida and Georgia at the front of his recruitment
High-upside build: Size and length make him an ideal EDGE in a pass-rush heavy conference.
Ready-made fit: Scheme familiarity gives him a head start.Extends pipeline: His Furmanville background adds to Georgia’s in-state streak.
Depth reinforcement: Bolsters front-seven for the uncertain seasons ahead.
Recruiting leverage: Swinging such recruits away from rivals strengthens Georgia’s national brand.
Corey Howard’s commitment is a quiet yet meaningful win for the Bulldogs. While not a headline star, he very well may embody Kirby Smart’s blueprint: develop high-upside, tough-to-quantify athletes with size, versatility, and in-state roots. Over time, Georgia’s developmental process could turn Howard into a key rotational weapon, enhancing national championship contenders for years to come.
If you’d like, I can update you as Howard’s development continues—like spring camp buzz, fall scrimmage flashes, or even track his future rankings on On3, 247, or Rivals. Just say the word!
