On Tuesday, Georgia junior Brock Bowers—who won the esteemed Mackey Award as the top tight end in college football for the second year running—announced his intention to declare for the NFL draft.
Napa, California native Bowers is presently rated as the fifth-best prospect for the 2024 NFL draft by ESPN expert Mel Kiper Jr.; another ESPN analyst, Jordan Reid, has him at eighth.
In an Instagram post thanking “Dawg Nation,” Bowers pondered over his amazing three years at the university. He expressed gratitude for his family’s persistent support, especially for his parents, who traveled across the nation multiple times to support him on his quest.
Bowers, a three-time All-SEC and All-American selection, made a significant impact with the Bulldogs from his freshman year in 2021. His impressive statistics, including 56 receptions for 882 yards and 13 touchdowns, played a pivotal role in securing the Bulldogs’ first national championship in 41 years.
In his sophomore season, Bowers continued to shine with 63 catches for 942 yards and 7 touchdowns, contributing to the Bulldogs’ undefeated record and consecutive CFP national championships.
Despite facing adversity in the form of a left ankle injury that required TightRope surgery in October of the recent season, Bowers displayed resilience. He missed three games but still managed to accumulate 56 catches for 714 yards and 6 scores. Notably, his 494 receiving yards after contact led all FBS tight ends during the season.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 240 pounds, Bowers, unfortunately, faced limitations in the SEC championship game against Alabama and sat out the Capital One Orange Bowl against Florida State due to lingering effects of the ankle injury.
Georgia coach Kirby Smart praised Bowers for his exceptional athleticism, toughness, and work ethic, highlighting his significant impact on the team’s culture and offensive approach. Smart expressed confidence that Bowers’ legacy would leave a lasting influence on the roster.
Due to Bowers’ versatility, adept blocking skills, and ability to excel after the catch, he is anticipated to be one of the highest-selected tight ends in NFL draft history. The Atlanta Falcons set a precedent by choosing Florida’s Kyle Pitts with the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, making him the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history.
