Breaking: Highly Rated Star Confirms commits to Georgia over NC State, Georgia Tech
Georgia secured a significant commitment in the 2025 class with the addition of in-state cornerback. It took a collective effort from the Bulldogs’ staff to close the deal, but they successfully landed the 4-star recruit.
On Saturday, Gilbert, a standout from Douglass-Atlanta (Ga.), announced his decision to commit to Georgia over other programs like NC State and Georgia Tech. His final visit to Georgia played a pivotal role in his choice. In an interview with Dawgs247, Gilbert revealed that a conversation with head coach Kirby Smart at the end of July was the deciding factor.
“Yes, I worked out. But it was the talk with Kirby that really opened my eyes,” Gilbert shared with Dawgs247. “He was straightforward with me, saying he wanted and needed me at Georgia. He mentioned that a few cornerbacks would be leaving next year, so there would be opportunities for me, [cornerback commit] Shamari [Earls], and others.”
The turning point for Gilbert and Georgia came on May 31. Although Gilbert had been on Georgia’s radar for several years, the most significant push came after a camp workout with Smart, Donte Williams, and Travaris Robinson. From that moment, it became clear to Gilbert that he was a top priority for the Bulldogs.
“I went to the camp and did great. Coach Smart was really impressed with me. We talked for an hour after the camp, and he was honest about what he liked and what I needed to work on. I appreciated that honesty,” Gilbert said.
During the camp, Gilbert ran a 4.51, erasing any doubts about his ability to play cornerback at Georgia. He explained, “There was some speculation about my speed and coverage ability. I went there to prove I could do what people doubted. Coach Smart liked that I compete at a high level and wants to surround himself with people who love to compete.”
At 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, Gilbert is expected to split his time between boundary corner and nickel positions at Georgia. His primary recruiter, Donte Williams, had been pursuing him since his time at USC, where Gilbert was his top target.
“To him, when he was at USC, I was the No. 1 guy he wanted,” Gilbert said, emphasizing the importance of his relationship with Williams in his decision.
With Gilbert’s commitment, Georgia’s 2025 class now includes 23 commitments, featuring defensive backs Gilbert, Earls, Todd Robinson, Jaylan Morgan, and Rashad Johnson. This gives Georgia a team score of 291.77 in the 247Sports Team Rankings, moving them up to the No. 3 spot behind Ohio State and Alabama.