First-Year Profile: Xavian Sorey
First-Year Profile: Xavian Sorey
(Photo: UGA Sports Communications)
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 IMG Academy product Xavian Sorey.
Ranking: Sorey was ranked the No. 25 overall prospect in the 2021 class, No. 2 linebacker and No. 7-ranked player from the Sunshine State, per the 247Spors Composite.
Size: 6-foot-3, 215 pounds
Background: Sorey was one of the most sought out outside linebackers in the country in the 2021 recruiting class. However, it was Alabama, Florida and Georgia who were his top-three schools. The Bradenton, Florida native committed to the Bulldogs on Dec. 16, 2020, and enrolled in classes earlier this year. Several coaches, including Kirby Smart, Dan Lanning and Glenn Schumann helped ink Sorey’s signature.
2021 Potential Impact: Sorey enrolled early and started classes on Jan. 10, but he battled a nagging foot injury that slowed him down during spring practice. Nevertheless, he was listed on the red team for G-Day at outside linebacker with Robert Beal, Chaz Chambliss, and MJ Sherman. Sorey fits well into UGA’s system, whether it’s at the outside or inside linebacker.
He has the speed and physicality to help out on second and third down, respectively. It’s more than likely that Sorey will be a “situational player” in 2021 as he learns the system. His playing time next season will also depend on how he develops during the voluntary summer workouts and fall camp. A good way for a guy like Sorey to see the field is to start out on special teams, which is what Smart likes out of his younger role players.
Above-average height as a linebacker with a strong upper body that still is filling out and is far from maxed out. Length drives his range on defense, particularly in pass coverage. Has natural soft hands with the ability to track and make plays on the football in coverage. Makes one-handed catches and plays downfield regularly. Showcases explosiveness on the basketball court and plays well above the rim. Has versatility on the football field and is used as a running back, fullback, tight end and rover. Shows natural body control. More smooth than sudden. Plays fast but under control. Is not a violent tackler. Makes most of his plays defensively on the perimeter and doesn't show a lot of downhill tackling. Has versatility to be an inside or outside linebacker. Size lends to inside. Not as rare physically as an edge defender. Needs to showcase that he has the demeanor necessary to be dominant at linebacker and inside the tackle box but has the traits necessary to be an elite modern linebacker. Likely impact Power 5 prospect with early round NFL Draft potential. - Barton Simmons, 247Sports
Check out the other First-Year Profiles: