Kirby Smart Didn’t Hold Back in Sharing His Thoughts on NIL
Just a few days ago, Georgia football lost out on one of its top targets in the 2026 recruiting class. Five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell announced on Tuesday that he would be committing to Miami (FL), a surprising move considering Georgia was widely viewed as the frontrunner just hours before his decision.
Many believe a last-minute boost in Cantwell’s NIL offer played a major role in his choice to go with Miami, which sparked frustration among many Georgia fans. However, head coach Kirby Smart didn’t seem fazed. On Wednesday, he made a pointed comment:
“I just want to be able to have a freshman come in and not make more than a senior, and I’d like for other sports to still be able to survive,” Smart said via Paul Finebaum. “We’re probably a year or two away from a lot of schools cutting sports.”
Was this directed at Jackson Cantwell?
While Smart didn’t mention Cantwell by name, the timing and context suggest the remark could be connected. His emphasis on freshmen earning less than seniors seems to align with reports that Cantwell was seeking NIL compensation far above what many veteran Georgia players currently receive—allegedly four times more.Kirby Smart Makes Striking NIL Remark After Jackson Cantwell Turns Down Georgia
Even if not directly aimed at Cantwell, Smart’s comment reflects a broader stance: Georgia isn’t comfortable with freshmen, no matter how talented, out-earning their seasoned players. It’s a perspective that many UGA fans seem to support.
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