Kirby Smart Hires Former Georgia Football Player to Coaching Staff

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Kirby Smart Hires Former Georgia Football Player to Coaching Staff

The standard inside the Georgia football building is clear. Win games. Develop players. And trust the people who understand what it takes to succeed in Athens. As the Bulldogs gear up for 2026, with their eyes set on another national championship, head coach Kirby Smart is doubling down on a well-known philosophy.

According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, Georgia has promoted former defensive back Maurice Smith to a full-time defensive analyst position. The move continues a familiar trend under Smart, who has repeatedly brought former players back into the program as it pushes to remain among college football’s elite.

Smith’s connection to Smart goes back more than a decade. He played for the Alabama Crimson Tide from 2013 to 2015 while Smart served as defensive coordinator under head coach Nick Saban. When Smart took the Georgia head coaching job in 2016, Smith followed for his final season of eligibility as a graduate transfer. The move was initially blocked by Alabama, but SEC commissioner Greg Sankey eventually granted a waiver after public pressure mounted, with Smart backing Smith throughout the process.

Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart reacts after a play against the Ole Miss Rebels during the 2026 Sugar Bowl.

That connection paid off immediately. In his lone season at Georgia in 2016, Smith was named a team captain and defensive MVP. He recorded 50 tackles, three passes defended, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. His signature moment came in a 13-7 upset of then-No. 8 Auburn, when Smith returned an interception 34 yards for the game’s only Georgia touchdown. He earned SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors and became one of three Bulldogs to win a conference award that season, joining Nick Chubb and Rodrigo Blankenship.

After going undrafted in 2017, Smith spent five seasons in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins, Washington, Cincinnati Bengals and Tennessee Titans. He later extended his playing career in the XFL with the Vegas Vipers before transitioning into coaching following the 2023 season.

Georgia has followed this blueprint before. Former players such as Mike Bobo and Warren Ericson have moved into coaching roles under Smart. The program has also developed analysts into coordinators and head coaches across college football, suggesting that the position could serve as a long-term stepping stone for Smith.

Smart’s defensive system has been a cornerstone of the program’s success. Adding someone who understands its language, demands and culture could help maintain consistency as the Bulldogs prepare to open the 2026 season on Sept. 5 against the Tennessee State Tigers.

Georgia is again expected to field one of the nation’s top defenses. Smith’s familiarity with the scheme and the expectations in Athens could help bridge the gap between veteran leadership and the next wave of contributors.

Related: Kirby Smart, Georgia Receive Unfortunate Update on 5-Star Recruit

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the College section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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