Four-star LB Ja’Bios Smith feels like a "priority" for Georgia

Swainsboro (Ga.) Class of 2027 linebacker Ja’Bios Smith continues to build a strong connection with Georgia, and the feeling appears mutual.

After multiple visits to Athens and extended time with the Bulldogs’ coaching staff, Smith believes he has positioned himself as one of the program’s top linebacker targets.

“Top priority, at least,” Smith said. “Getting to spend that much time with Coach Schu, so it was great.”

Smith has become a familiar face around Georgia’s program, frequently returning to campus and deepening his relationships — particularly with defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach, Glenn Schumann.

Each visit has only strengthened his impression.

“He’s just a cool dude,” Smith said. “You’ve got to love his energy.”

That consistency in communication and connection has helped Georgia stand out, even as other programs begin to push for the in-state standout.

“They’re recruiting me hard, doing what they’ve been doing,” Smith said.

Another key relationship for Smith has been with Georgia defensive back Demello Jones, a former Swainsboro teammate. The two spent time together on a recent visit, and Jones gave him the rundown on the program.

“He just tells me what’s real up there and what’s not, and what I expect and what I don’t expect,” Smith said. “It’s great communication… I think he’s a great person.”

That transparency has only added to Georgia’s appeal, a team Smith says he respects for its sustained success on the field.

“It’s a winning program,” Smith said. “You want to be a part of that.”

Georgia’s early belief in Smith also continues to resonate. The Bulldogs extended an offer during his sophomore year — his third overall — which caught him off guard at the time.

“It was great,” Smith said. “When I was younger… I was like, man, it’s going to be a while. And then that surprised me.”

Now firmly on Georgia’s radar with momentum building in his recruitment, the 6-foot-3, 200-pound linebacker prospect is eager to continue learning during future visits. He’s already been to Athens several times, but each trip brings something new as he continues to learn more about the Bulldogs.

“Getting to spend a little bit more time, get deeper into everything else, personal-wise,” he said.

Smith will take official visits to South Carolina, Florida, Texas A&M, Texas, and Georgia before he commits.