Georgia secures quarterback Jaden Rashada through the transfer portal, a significant acquisition for Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs. Rashada, formerly of Arizona State, is poised to commit to Georgia following his recent visit to Athens. This move provides Georgia with a promising future starter to complement returning quarterback Carson Beck, a prospect anticipated to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Rashada’s entry into the NCAA transfer portal immediately placed Georgia as the frontrunner for his services.
Originally recruited by Florida as one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2023 class, Rashada’s journey led him to Arizona State due to a complication involving Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations. Despite only seeing action in three games as a freshman for the Sun Devils, Rashada retained his redshirt status, offering Georgia the opportunity for a full career with him. This development mirrors Oregon’s recent strategy of securing quarterbacks through the portal, exemplified by Dillon Gabriel from Oklahoma and future prospect Dante Moore from UCLA.
The spring transfer portal landscape has been relatively quiet for quarterbacks, making Rashada’s decision all the more significant. Georgia had been actively seeking another scholarship quarterback since Brock Vandagriff’s departure to Kentucky, and Rashada fills that void. Competing with Gunner Stockton for the backup role this fall, Rashada brings four years of eligibility and a skill set that aligns well with Georgia’s needs. Notably, LSU benefitted from a similar transfer with Jayden Daniels, who earned Heisman honors and is poised for an early selection in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Rashada’s brief stint with the Gators was marred by NIL complications, reportedly involving a substantial financial offer. Arizona State quarterback Trenton Bourget expressed his sentiments on Rashada’s decision, wishing him success at his new destination. Kirby Smart, Georgia’s head coach, addressed questions regarding portal quarterbacks, emphasizing the team’s aim to have four scholarship quarterbacks and a talented walk-on. Despite some player departures during the spring, Georgia maintains four scholarship quarterbacks heading into the fall.
Smart remains unfazed by potential roster changes, emphasizing the importance of player commitment to the program’s values. Rashada’s fit with the Bulldogs is ideal due to his athleticism and the opportunity for gradual development, contrasting with his experience at Arizona State. With Rashada’s arrival, Georgia strengthens its quarterback depth and sets the stage for continued success.
