Corey Howard commits to Georgia football

Kirby Smart and the Georgia Bulldogs continue their summer recruiting momentum, this time securing the commitment of fast-rising 2026 defensive lineman Corey Howard. The 6-foot-6, 260-pound standout from Valdosta, Georgia, chose the Bulldogs over Florida, who made a strong push in the latter stages of his recruitment.

BREAKING: Class of 2026 EDGE Corey Howard has Committed to Georgia, he tells me for @on3recruits

The 6’5 265 EDGE from Valdosta, GA chose the Bulldogs over Florida

“Been working a long time it’s finally time to get paid, but still got a long way to go”https://t.co/3yqDUuGrAV pic.twitter.com/TUsJW7F7Ox

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 24, 2025

Howard has emerged as a classic late bloomer in the 2026 cycle. While he wasn’t a household name early in the process, his recent camp performances and junior film caught the eye of top programs across the Southeast. Georgia wasted no time making him a priority, with defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann and the defensive staff recognizing Howard’s elite frame, raw power, and developmental upside. His versatility across the defensive front and the motor he displays on tape made him a natural fit for the Bulldogs’ defensive identity.

With Howard’s pledge, Georgia now sits at 21 total commitments in the 2026 class, continuing its upward trend in the national recruiting rankings. This commitment also marks the second in as many days for the Dawgs, following the Monday announcement from EDGE Khamari Brooks, another in-state defender from powerhouse North Oconee. Smart and company are focusing on locking down Georgia’s top talent early in the cycle.

And Georgia’s momentum may only be just getting started. Several primary targets remain on the board this week, with decisions coming soon. Four-star running back Jae Lamar is set to choose between Georgia and Miami on Wednesday, and dynamic wide receiver Craig Dandridge will follow with his commitment on Thursday. The Bulldogs will be tuned in closely on Friday as well, with offensive tackle Malaki Lee and safety Chace Calicut—both high on Georgia’s wishlist—making their college decisions.

Corey Howard’s commitment not only adds size and athleticism to Georgia’s future defensive line room but also sends a message that the Bulldogs are ready to dominate the 2026 cycle just as they have in recent years. With a national brand, an elite development track record, and a recruiting machine that doesn’t slow down, Georgia continues to stack talent as it eyes another championship-caliber roster for the future.