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The NFL Combine is a pivotal event in the annual draft cycle, where college football’s top prospects showcase their skills in front of scouts, coaches, and general managers from every NFL team. For the players who do receive an invite, the Combine represents an opportunity to solidify their draft stock, improve their visibility, and potentially change the trajectory of their professional careers. However, not all players get the coveted invite to Indianapolis, and some notable prospects can slip through the cracks. This year, a few Georgia Bulldogs, despite their exceptional college careers, did not receive invitations to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, raising eyebrows in the college football world.

Georgia has been one of the most dominant programs in college football in recent years, boasting back-to-back national championships, a deep roster full of talent, and a pipeline to the NFL that continues to produce star players year after year. Yet, even in such a successful program, there are always a few players who might not get the Combine recognition they deserve.

In this blog post, we’ll examine three Georgia Bulldogs who did not receive NFL Combine invitations but still have a chance to make an impact at the professional level. While the Combine can be a significant milestone, it is by no means the end-all-be-all for a player’s future. In fact, many successful NFL players were overlooked by scouts or skipped over in the draft. These three Bulldogs—each with their own set of unique talents—may very well prove that their path to the NFL will be just as fruitful, even without a trip to Indianapolis.

### 1. **Kearis Jackson – Wide Receiver**

Kearis Jackson was a standout wide receiver for the Georgia Bulldogs, earning a reputation for his route running, reliable hands, and ability to make clutch catches in critical moments. Over his four years at Georgia, Jackson contributed significantly to the Bulldogs’ offense, racking up solid receiving yards, touchdowns, and key plays during his career. However, despite his consistent performance in one of the nation’s top programs, Jackson did not receive an invite to the NFL Combine.

At Georgia, Jackson was known for his ability to create separation from defenders with his quickness, physicality, and sharp football IQ. He played an important role in the Bulldogs’ offensive scheme, making key catches in pivotal moments. Jackson’s biggest strengths include his ability to run precise routes, create space in the open field, and bring a veteran presence to any team he plays for. But despite these qualities, some concerns about his size and top-end speed have limited his exposure in the eyes of NFL scouts.

Jackson stands at 6 feet, 200 pounds, which is a decent size for a receiver, but his 40-yard dash time at his Pro Day will be critical to his draft stock. There is no question that Jackson has the ability to contribute to an NFL team, especially as a reliable possession receiver and special teams contributor. However, not getting a Combine invitation has left him in a position where he’ll have to prove his value during private workouts and Pro Day performances.

Despite being overlooked for the Combine, Jackson’s tenacity and proven production at Georgia give him the chance to carve out a role in the NFL. Many NFL players have had success after being snubbed by the Combine, and Jackson’s skill set suggests he will be able to find a home in the league.

### 2. **Jalen Carter – Defensive Tackle**

While the omission of Kearis Jackson from the NFL Combine invitation list is somewhat surprising, perhaps the most shocking snub comes in the form of defensive tackle Jalen Carter. Carter was arguably the most dominant player on Georgia’s defense during the Bulldogs’ national title runs in 2022 and 2023. A highly regarded prospect, Carter played a critical role in anchoring the Georgia defense, known for his ability to disrupt the opponent’s offensive line, rush the quarterback, and stop the run. However, despite his immense talent, Carter did not receive a Combine invitation.

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 310 pounds, Carter has the ideal physical build for a defensive tackle. His ability to overpower blockers and collapse the pocket has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL’s best defensive linemen. Carter’s speed, agility, and strength make him an exceptional force up the middle. He’s not just a space-eater; he is a player capable of causing havoc in the backfield, disrupting passing lanes, and stopping running plays before they develop.

So why was Carter left off the list of Combine invitees? The reasons aren’t entirely clear, but it could be a combination of factors, including some lingering concerns about his injury history and the fact that defensive tackles often don’t always get the same attention as edge rushers or pass rush specialists. Additionally, Georgia has such an extensive roster full of future NFL talent, which could have played a role in Carter getting overshadowed by teammates.

Regardless of the Combine invite, Carter’s play on the field speaks volumes. He will have an opportunity to showcase his talents in other settings, including his Pro Day and private workouts. If Carter can demonstrate his explosiveness and versatility in those settings, there’s little doubt he will be one of the top defensive linemen selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.

### 3. **Stetson Bennett – Quarterback**

Stetson Bennett, the quarterback who led Georgia to back-to-back national championships, also failed to receive an NFL Combine invitation, much to the surprise of many. While Bennett’s path to Georgia’s starting quarterback role was anything but conventional, his rise to prominence and eventual success has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for his leadership, clutch performances, and ability to manage games, Bennett became one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Georgia history. However, despite his success in college, Bennett didn’t garner an invite to the NFL Combine.

Bennett stands at 5 feet 11 inches and weighs around 190 pounds, which is considered on the smaller side for a quarterback in today’s NFL. Despite his smaller stature, Bennett consistently demonstrated the ability to perform under pressure, especially during Georgia’s two title runs. His poise in big moments, strong decision-making, and ability to execute in high-stakes games earned him the respect of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

However, scouts have questioned whether Bennett’s physical tools—particularly his arm strength and mobility—are enough to make him a top-tier quarterback at the next level. His lack of ideal size and his less-than-elite arm strength have left some questioning whether he can translate his college success to the professional ranks. Nevertheless, Bennett’s leadership and experience playing in big games could make him an attractive option for teams looking for a reliable backup quarterback or even a developmental prospect.

Despite not receiving a Combine invite, Bennett has a chance to prove the doubters wrong during his Pro Day. His experience, leadership, and proven ability to win big games will surely be an asset to any NFL team willing to give him a shot.

### Conclusion: The Road Ahead for These Bulldogs

While the snubs from the NFL Combine may seem like a setback for these three Georgia Bulldogs, it’s important to remember that the NFL Draft process is far from over. Many players who did not receive Combine invites still manage to make a lasting impact on the professional level. Jackson, Carter, and Bennett each have the tools to succeed in the NFL, and their performances at Pro Days, private workouts, and team interviews will go a long way in determining their futures.

For Kearis Jackson, the challenge will be proving his speed and ability to contribute at the next level. For Jalen Carter, it’s about showing that his dominance in college can translate into the NFL. And for Stetson Bennett, it’s about proving that his leadership and clutch performances outweigh concerns about his physical limitations.

Georgia has proven time and again that it can produce NFL-ready talent, and though these three Bulldogs may have been overlooked for the Combine, they are far from finished. If history is any indication, expect these players to find success in the NFL, no matter the path they take to get there.