One of Georgia’s most recent first-round picks had a profound effect on Chris Cole.
The sophomore linebacker has been compared to Jalon Walker due to his impressive athleticism. Cole appreciates the comparison to a leader who helped make him the player he is today.
“He honestly taught me how to give effort every single day,” Cole said. “I’ve seen him play every position you can think of, and just seeing him every day try to be his best. When I first got here, I didn’t really know how to pass rush. That was my first time playing JACK. He honestly taught me how to pass rush. I also still talk to him, too, and kind of ask him questions on how he feels about this, and I send him videos of myself just trying to help me out.”
With Walker gone, Cole will be among those tasked with helping replace his production.
Cole focused on his pass rush skills this offseason and feels he improved in that area. He has also worked on honing his overall skillset as a complete inside linebacker.
Like Walker, Cole is tasked with cross-training at multiple positions in Georgia’s defense.
“It’s definitely like a lot of film, you know, because I bounce around everywhere,” Cole said. “Definitely a lot of film and just tying down on what my job is, depending if I’m playing Jack, Star, Money. Just any time I’m on the field just knowing my job and what I’m supposed to do.”
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has been impressed by Cole’s efforts in his second year in Athens.
“He works really hard,” Smart said. “He’s got great toughness. He’s got great length. He can play multiple positions. He plays all over the field for us. He’s just a joy to work with. He’s a note-taker, student of the game. You know, when you talk about successful people, they have pride in their performance. He has a lot of pride in his performance, and I respect that.”
The expectations are high for Cole. Teammates have praised his athleticism, and Smart has singled out Cole for playing with the passion, fire, and energy he’s looking for.
For Cole, he’s relying on his effort as much as his natural ability as he looks to take the next step in 2025.
“I’m like a high-effort guy,” Cole said. “I just never give up, and I just try to do my best in everything I do. If it’s special teams, if it’s not playing, trying to help them out in the film or just anything, I try to do my best.”