Georgia Bulldogs safety KJ Bolden has been ranked fifth among college football safeties entering the 2025 season by Pro Football Focus, making him one of the two sophomores on the top 10 list. Bolden, a former five-star recruit, aims to build on his freshman year performance where he recorded 59 tackles, two tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and one interception.
As Georgia looks to strengthen its defense, Bolden's role becomes more crucial following the departures of Malaki Starks and Dan Jackson. In his first season, Bolden proved to be a key player in the safety position, contributing significantly alongside Starks and Jackson. Heading into the 2025 season, Bolden is poised to lead the Georgia defense, with the coaching staff emphasizing the importance of mental and physical toughness for player development.
Georgia football head coach Kirby Smart highlighted the need for improved toughness and more players capable of winning football games, emphasizing the significance of leaders like Bolden and Daylen Everette in guiding the team's secondary. The spring season was instrumental in Bolden's growth as a vocal leader, as he prepares to take on a more prominent role in the upcoming season.