Smael Mondon Jr. shares which Georgia Bulldogs are the ones to watch in 2025

During his NFL Combine press conference, former Georgia Bulldog linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. didn’t hesitate to shine a spotlight on his alma mater, naming several players he believes will keep the Dawgs in contention next season.

As he prepares for his own leap to the pros, Mondon’s insights carry weight. Mondon knows the makings of a star player and has learned from, played with, and prepared with superstars during his tenure in Athens. Mondon offering a glimpse into the talent ready to step up in Athens is something to take note of.

Among the obvious standouts, Mondon singled out inside linebackers CJ Allen and Raylen Wilson. Both players stepped into more prominent roles last season and proved they’re ready to anchor Georgia’s defense. Allen’s instincts and physicality and Wilson’s explosiveness and suddenness make them a formidable duo, and Mondon’s endorsement only reinforces the high expectations surrounding them.

But he didn’t stop there—he also gave the nod to Quintavius “Q” Johnson, a 6’4”, 255-pound second-year outside linebacker. Johnson’s size and strength suggest he could be a disruptive force off the edge, and Mondon sees him as a breakout candidate with sky-high potential.

Mondon also highlighted Gabe Harris, the most experienced outside linebacker left on the roster. With Jalon Walker declaring for the NFL, Damon Wilson having transferred to Missouri, and Chaz Chambliss exhausting his eligibility, Harris’s veteran presence will be crucial. His consistency and know-how could steady a position group in transition. Another defensive name to watch, according to Mondon, is freshman All-American safety KJ Bolden. Bolden “flashed” last season with his speed and playmaking ability, and Mondon believes the young star’s best is yet to come.

Perhaps most intriguing for Georgia fans, Mondon pointed to redshirt freshman tight end Jaden Reddell as a player to keep an eye on. At 6’4” and 240 pounds, Reddell brings a rare blend of size and athleticism that draws comparisons to Bulldog legend Brock Bowers. While no one expects him to fully replicate Bowers’ dominance right away, Reddell’s skill set could make him a matchup nightmare. Fans might catch a preview this spring, with an even bigger role likely awaiting him in the fall.

Mondon’s list blends proven talent with rising stars, a mix that has Georgia fans buzzing about what’s next. As the Dawgs reload for another championship push, these names—Allen, Wilson, Johnson, Harris, Bolden, and Reddell—could be the ones leading the charge. If Mondon’s instincts are right, Athens will remain a college football hotspot in 2025.