"KIRBY LOSING THE LOCKER ROOM": Fans react to four-star DL Christian Garrett's latest decommitment news

Four-star defensive lineman Christian Garrett, from Prince Avenue Christian in Georgia, was earlier set to commit on July 20. However, he surprised many by giving his pledge to the Georgia Bulldogs on June 9 after an official visit to the school. The decision seemed to signal that Georgia had successfully secured one of the top in-state prospects early in the recruiting cycle.

But within less than two months of his commitment, the 6-foot-3.5, 285-pound Garrett has decided to back off his commitment and reopen his recruitment process. His decision has left the Dawgs with 22 commits in their 2025 class and marks the program's fifth de-commitment, joining Justus Terry, Micah Debose, Jadon Perlotte and Jabree Wallace-Coleman.

Some have been quick to criticize Georgia coach Kirby Smart for such a troubling trend in recruiting.

"KIRBY LOSING THE LOCKER ROOM," one wrote.

"What’s happening in Athens?!" another fan wrote.

On3 ranks Christian Garrett as the No. 62 overall player in the nation, the No. 5 defensive lineman in the 2025 class and the No. 9 prospect in Georgia. Losing a player of his caliber, especially one from their own state, is seen as a big blow to the Bulldogs' recruiting efforts.

"Why do I feel like Georgia never dominates recruiting in their own state," one fan wrote.

Some fans have speculated that Garrett’s de-commitment may have been influenced by lucrative NIL deals from rival programs.

"Who dropped that bag off: Bama, O St, FSU, LSU, F??? We’ll find out soon," one wrote.

"Auburn with the NIL I am guessing," one wrote.

However, some fans supported Christian Garrett’s decision to explore his options further.

"Good decision young man," one wrote.

Let's look at some highlighted fan reactions to this discussion:

During his junior season in 2023, Christian Garrett recorded 86 tackles, nine tackles for loss, one interception and five sacks. He recorded 56 tackles, seven quarterback hurries and three sacks as a sophomore in 2022. He also excels in track and field, being a state qualifier in the shot put with a personal best of 49-8.5 during his sophomore year.

Garrett's de-commitment is a big blow, but the Bulldogs still have blue-chip prospects like edge rusher Isaiah Gibson, tight end Elyiss Williams, linebacker Zayden Walker, wide receiver Talyn Taylor and cornerback Shamari Earls committed to their 2026 class.

Which program can earn Christian Garrett's commitment?

Being a Georgia native, Georgia Tech has also been a good option for Christian Garrett. Following his de-commitment from the Georgia Bulldogs, On3 recruiting analyst Steve Wiltfong predicted that the Yellow Jackets are the frontrunners. The On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine backs this up, giving Georgia Tech an 88.4% chance of landing Garrett.

The Yellow Jackets have a total of 21 committed players in the 2025 class, which ranks No. 32 in the nation and No. 5 in the ACC. The class is headlined by cornerback Dalen Penson, offensive tackle Damola Ajidahun, interior offensive lineman Damola Ajidahun and safety Fenix Felton.

While Georgia Tech seems to have the edge, the Bulldogs still have a slim chance of reclaiming Christian Garrett’s commitment, with a 5.7% probability. Clemson and Tennessee are also in the mix but trail with just 2.3% and 1.5% chance, respectively.