Georgia’s Pursuit of In-State Running Back Jae Lamar Paying Dividends Early
The University of Georgia’s focused pursuit of in-state running back Jae Lamar is already showing promising returns, as the talented recruit has quickly made his presence felt in his first season with the Bulldogs. Lamar, who was a standout at Westlake High School in Atlanta, committed to Georgia in the summer of 2023, becoming one of the top prospects in the state. His decision to stay home is already paying off for both the player and the program.
As a freshman, Lamar has impressed coaches and teammates with his combination of speed, vision, and physicality. In the Bulldogs’ early season matchups, he’s already seen significant playing time, earning praise for his ability to hit the ground running. Lamar has been used in various roles, including as a change-of-pace back behind Georgia’s established starter, Kendall Milton, and has contributed as both a rusher and a pass-catcher out of the backfield.
Head coach Kirby Smart has lauded Lamar’s work ethic and maturity, noting that the freshman has a high football IQ and shows a natural ability to read defenses. Lamar’s explosiveness has been on display, with several highlight-reel runs that have energized the fanbase. In a game against a ranked opponent, Lamar broke off a 45-yard touchdown run that showcased his speed and ability to make defenders miss in open space.
Beyond his on-field performance, Lamar’s decision to join the Bulldogs is a huge win for Georgia’s recruiting efforts. Signing an elite in-state talent helps keep the state’s top prospects in Athens, further solidifying Georgia’s status as a recruiting powerhouse. With his early success, Lamar appears poised to become a key contributor in Georgia’s offensive backfield for years to come.