Highly regarded pass rusher Rodney Dunham is a sought-after four-star prospect in the 2026 college football recruiting class. There is extensive rivalry to secure a commitment from the star defender.
Top teams such as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, South Carolina Gamecocks, and Tennessee Volunteers are in contention to secure Dunham. However, there is one SEC team that seems to have left a significant impact following a visit this last weekend.
The Georgia Bulldogs are searching for the next outstanding pass rusher for the team. On Sunday, head coach Kirby Smart was seen with the 6-foot-4, 230-pound standout edge rusher.
Dunham, who is presently enrolled at Myers Park High School in Charlotte, N.C., is ranked as On3.com’s seventh overall prospect in the 2026 class and is the third highest-rated pass rusher. The defender is unanimously rated as a four-star player by On3, Rivals, ESPN, and 247Sports.
During his trip to Georgia, Dunham had the chance to interact with Smart and the Bulldogs coaching staff, talking about the program’s vision and how he could help enhance their defensive strategies.
On3 estimates Dunham’s NIL value at $312,000. His inclusion would aid in strengthening the Bulldogs’ defensive line, maintaining their legacy of producing NFL-quality defensive players.
Smart signed a 10-year, $130 million deal last May 2024, according to ESPN’s Chris Low. Regarding Smart’s record annual salary, Nick Saban held the title of the highest-paid college football coach until his retirement in January 2024. Clemson Tigers’ Dabo Swinney came next with $11.5 million, while USC Trojans’ Lincoln Riley earned approximately $11 million.
In early 2024, Kalen DeBoer of Alabama Crimson Tide ($10.87 million), Steve Sarkisian of Texas Longhorns ($10.64 million), and Mike Norvell of Florida State ($10.52 million) all surpassed the $10 million threshold.
Smart will be testing his earnings as the Dawgs engage in a fierce recruiting struggle for Dunham. On3 presently lists the Duke Blue Devils as the frontrunner for Dunham, but the athlete’s trip to Athens, Ga., might have altered the situation.
“My favorite aspect is their culture; they succeed,” Dunham shared with On3’s Steve Wiltfong on Sunday. “Excellent school and Athens is a fantastic city.” However, they grow, they succeed, and they possess the finest, most well-rounded athletes.
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