First-Year Profile: Smael Mondon
First-Year Profile: Smael Mondon
(Photo: Hudl Screenshot)
Over the next month, DogWatch will be looking at the Bulldogs’ incoming freshman in a new series called First Year Profile.
Today, we will look at former Paulding County product Smael Mondon.
Ranking: Mondon was ranked the No. 34 overall prospect in the 2021 class, No. 4 linebacker and No. 4 player in the Peach State, per the 247Sports Composite.
Height/Size: 6-foot-3, 220 pounds
Background: Mondon was one of the highest-rated prospects in the state of Georgia in the 2021 recruiting cycle. The Bulldogs had the high ground during the start of his recruiting process, but he also held offers from several other prominent SEC schools, including Tennessee, Auburn, Texas A&M and Alabama. The Tigers gained some traction, however, Georgia got a commitment from Mondon on Nov. 18. The Dallas, Ga. native then signed his letter of intent on the first day of the Early Signing Period on Dec. 16. Shortly after, he enrolled at UGA earlier this year.
2021 Potential Impact: Mondon could play either outside or inside linebacker this upcoming season. Dogwatch predicts that he will be used as an outside linebacker because of his size and speed. It’s easy to see Mondon coming off the edge and rushing the passer because he possesses those intangibles to do so. However, he could also be used at inside linebacker helping clog up running lanes. It’s really up to head coach Kirby Smart and defensive coordinator Dan Lanning to see where Mondon plays at heading into fall camp. Nevertheless, Mondon could see the field being used as a situational player during different scenarios, too.
The Bulldogs have a ton of talent at outside linebacker, including Nolan Smith, Robert Beal and Adam Anderson. So, Mondon will likely be going up MJ Sherman and fellow freshman Xavien Sorey, who is equally as talented. Nakobe Dean is one of the most talented players in the SEC and has the top position on the inside locked up. Channing Tindall and Trezmen Marshall are others who Mondon will have to go up against. So, the best way for Mondon to see the field, at least during the start of the season, is to start out on special teams.
G-Day Performance: Mondon had five tackles for the red team during the annual intrasquad scrimmage.
Highlights:
Check out the other First-Year Profiles: