First-Year Profile: Chaz Chambliss
(Photo Courtesy from Chambliss’ Twitter)
Over the next month, DogWatch will be looking at the Bulldogs’ incoming freshman in a new series called First Year Profile
Today we look at Chaz Chambliss.
Ranking: No. 361 overall, No. 40 linebacker and No. 29 player in Georgia, per the 247Sports Composite.
Height/Weight: 6-foot-2, 250-pounds
Background: Chaz Chambliss verbally committed to Georgia on May 26, 2020, before making it official during Early Signing Day in Dec. 2020. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Super 11 player hails from Carrolton, GA. Despite having offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Clemson, and Ohio State, Chambliss chose to represent his home state instead. Chambliss was not rated as highly as fellow 2021 linebackers Smael Mondon and Xavian Sorey. However, reports suggest Chambliss has the attitude every Georgia fan would want in a player.
Potential 2021 Impact: At first glance, one might assume that Chambliss will struggle to get any playing time in 2021. He sits behind two stellar outside linebackers in Adam Anderson and Nolan Smith. Their starting roles, barring any injury, are solidified. Undoubtedly, Anderson and Smith will see a majority of the snaps this year. However, Chambliss has the potential to work his way into the rotation. After Smith and Anderson, UGA lacks experience at the outside linebacker position, making the second-string role is up for grabs.
MJ Sherman from the 2020 class will also compete for the next spot in the rotation. Sherman was a top recruit but failed to get much playing time behind former Bulldog Azeez Ojulari, Anderson and Smith last year. Sherman missed time this spring due to shoulder surgery. His absence left the door open for Chambliss to start for the Red team at G-Day. Even as a freshman, Chambliss’ role in the second-team defense was a surprise, as he beat out senior linebacker Robert Beal for the spot.
While Chambliss may be a year away from seeing significant playing time for the defense, he appears primed to stand out on special teams as a freshman, with the potential to get some snaps in when UGA puts in the second-team defense. It may be a neck-and-neck race between him and Sherman for the next spot in the rotation.
Coach Smart on Chambliss in February
“You know, Chaz committed early. He has been a wonderful addition. He’s here, working out now. He’s such a hard worker. Anytime you build guys into your program…these hard-working, high-character guys…they improve your overall team.”
Highlights:
Check out the other First-Year Profiles: