NSD 24: Georgia Southern Football Signing Class Takes Shape
12/20/2023 6:55:00 AM | Football
Follow along as the class is built
STATESBORO - Welcome to National Signing Day for the Class of 2024. Eagle Nation, follow along here as all the signees are announced on social media (@GSAthletics_FB) and their bios are posted below.
The bios below are from the December signees as well as the February addition. The full list of transfer and spring enrollees will be announced on Thursday. Additionally, Q&As and video interviews will be poated over the next month to highlight all the new mid-year enrollees.
The breakdown of the 25-player signing class is as follows:
Offense: 15 (QB: 2; RB: 2; TE: 2; WR: 4; OL: 5)
Defense: 10 (DL: 3; LB: 1; DB: 6)
From Georgia: 21 (third straight year GS has led the FBS in Georgia HS signees)
From North Carolina: 2
From Florida: 1
From Alabama: 1
THE BIOS
MIKHAI ISAAC
Tight End
6-4 • 205
Warner Robins, Ga. • Warner Robins HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shane Sams at Warner Robins HS … A first-team all-region selection for the 2-5A grouping as a senior … Rated the No. 131 tight end in the country and the No. 245 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports.
COLIN ALEXANDER
Offensive Line
6-5 • 285
Stockbridge, Ga. • Dutchtown HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Guy Mistretta at Dutchtown HS … A first-team all-region selection for the 2-5A grouping as a senior … Named all-state by the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association for Class 5A as a junior … An all-region selection for Group 2-5A as a junior … Rated the No. 194 interior offensive lineman in the country and the No. 241 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports.
JAQUARI BROWN
Cornerback
6-2 • 180
Warner Robins, Ga. • Houston County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Jeremy Edwards at Houston County HS … A first-team all-region selection for the 1-6A grouping as a senior … A second-team all-region selection as a sophomore … Rated the No. 179 cornerback in the country and the No. 185 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 192 cornerback in the country and the No. 183 player in the state by On3.
ELI ANDERS
Defensive End
6-5 • 230
Cornelius, N.C. • Hough HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach David Baker at Hough HS … A second-team 4A QCAC all-conference selection as a senior … Recorded 41 total tackles, including 7.0 for loss and 6.0 sacks, as a senior … Ranked the No. 149 edge rusher in the country and the No. 53 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 178 edge rusher in the country and the No. 62 player in the state of North Carolina by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 140 edge rusher in the country and the No. 46 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting.
PERSONAL: Born William Elijah Anders on May 3 in New Jersey … Son of Ingrid Langford and William Anders … Has a brother, Nolan, and a sister, Laila.
Safety
5-11 • 200
Albany, Ga. • Lee County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Lee County HS for Coach Dean Fabrizio … The Athlete of the Year for his play as a defensive back and receiver for the 4-7A grouping as a senior … A three-time all-region player and a two-time honorable mention all-state player … Had 76 carries for 551 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior … Also had two passing touchdowns, 523 kick return yards and 164 punt return yards … On defense, had 69 tackles, including 6.0 for loss and 3.0 sacks, along with four pass breakups … Ranked the No. 52 "athlete" in the country and the No. 177 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 154 safety in the country and the No. 148 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Earned all-region honors in track.
PERSONAL: Born Devin Shamar Collier on September 3 in Albany, GA … Son of Kelvin and Delorise Collier … Has three siblings: Victor Moore, Deantea Collier and Carlos Moore … Cousin is former NFL receiver Isaac Bruce.
Cornerback
6-3 • 180
Snellville, Ga. • South Gwinnett HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Bryan Lamar at South Gwinnett HS … A second-team all-region selection for the 4-7A grouping as a senior … Had 20 tackles and an interception as a senior in six games … Ranked the No. 138 safety in the country and the No. 172 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 148 cornerback in the country and the No. 163 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 150 safety in the country and the No. 168 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting … Played basketball and ran track.
PERSONAL: Born Elijah J. McDowell on October 27 in Atlanta … Son of Exabia and Angela McDowell … Has three siblings: Exavier, Evin and Avree … Exavier plays football at West Georgia.
Wide Receiver
6-0 • 160
Hoover, Ala. • Hoover HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Hoover HS for Coach Wade Waldrop … Named a first-team 7A Region 3 selection as a senior … Had 34 catches for 587 yards and six scores as a senior … A two-year starter who amassed 86 receptions for 1,371 Yards and 11 touchdowns along with 216 yards on kickoff returns … Named second-team all-state as a junior … Ranked the No. 98 wide receiver in the country and the No. 34 in the state of Alabama by 247Sports … Also played baseball and ran track.
PERSONAL: Born Jordan Lebron Woolen on June 19 in Hoover, AL … Son of Jerry and Crystal Woolen and Shannon Ashford … Has a sister, Madison, and a brother, Legend.
Running Back
5-9 • 175
West Point, Ga. • Troup County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Troup County HS for Coach Tanner Glisson … Scored 12 touchdowns as a senior, six on the ground and six via receptions … Ranked the No. 45 "athlete" in the country and the No. 176 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 187 running back in the country and the No. 186 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Named 2022-23 GACA 4A Offensive Player of the Year … The 2021 Freshman of the Year … Also played basketball and ran track.
PERSONAL: Born Montaeo Alexander Todd on September 16 in West Point, GA … Son of Lachic Truitt and Brandon Todd … Has three siblings: Brandon Jr., Amari and Terez.
2021-22: Attended Valdosta State, but did not see any action … Was redshirted.
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Chad Campbell at Peach County HS … A two-time first-team all-state selection by the GACA … A two-sport standout … Started three years in football and four years in basketball … Was first-team all-region in football … Had 20 catches for 534 yards and five interceptions as a senior … Named all-region in basketball.
PERSONAL: Born Dorrian Smith on July 7 in Warner Robins, GA … Son of Tabatha Hicks and Damian Smith … Has six siblings: Kaylie Mannm Tavarus Mann Jr., Malia Smith, Myleik Smith, Damian Smith Jr. and Daylen Smith.
Wide Receiver
5-9 • 185
Bainbridge, Ga. • Bainbridge HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Jeff Littleton at Bainbridge HS … Had 64 receptions for 1,127 yards and 1,536 all-purpose yards as a senior to earn Region 1-4A Offensive Player of the Year accolades … Named all-state by the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association for the Class 4A as a junior … Was a first-team all-region receiver as a sophomore … Listed as the No. 225 wide receiver in the country and the No. 190 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 188 "athlete" in the country and the No. 155 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … In 2020, placed fourth in the state in the 300m hurdles … In 2021, placed sixth in the state in the 300m hurdles … In 2021, was the region champ in both the 110m and 300m hurdles.
PERSONAL: Born Antavious Garnez Murphy on January 4 in Bainbridge, GA … Son of Twyla Baker and Anthony Murphy … Has four siblings: Omariya, Cyrena, Mahogany and Desmond.
Safety
6-1 • 185
Valdosta, Ga. • Valdosta HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shelton Felton at Valdosta HS … A first-team all-region selection as both a senior and junior … Had 58 tackles, including 12 for loss 3.0 three sacks, along with six quarterback hurries and an interception as a senior … Rated the No. 204 safety in the country and the No. 216 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Ranked No. 178 safety in the country and No. 198 in the state of Georgia by On3.
PERSONAL: Born Jaylen Tyrek Bentley on November 30 in Valdosta, GA … Son of Michael and Calandra Bentley.
TYLER BUDGE
Quarterback
6-3 • 205
Matthews, N.C. • Weddington HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Andy Capone at Weddington HS … Finished his senior season completing over 65% of his passes for 3,202 yards and 30 touchdowns … Also ran for 634 yards and 16 scores … Led his team to a North Carolina NCHSAA 4A state title as a senior … The SCC Offensive Player of the Year as both a junior and senior … Completed 230 of his 382 passing attempts for 3,219 yards and 34 touchdowns as a junior … A two-time Union County Offensive Player of the Year … A 2023 Shrine Bowl selection … Rated the No. 175 quarterback in the country and the No. 61 player in the state of North Carolina by 247Sports … Ranked the No. 61 quarterback (pocket passer) in the country and the No. 45 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting … Left as the school's all-time leader in career passing yards (6,521), career passing touchdowns (64), career completions, single-season passing yards, single-season passing touchdowns, single-season completions, passing yards in a game and passing touchdowns in a game … Had 1,017 career rushing yards and 20 touchdowns … Also played baseball.
PERSONAL: Born Tyler King Budge on April 18 in Charleston, SC … Son of Alexis and Stephen Budge … Has a sister, Hayden … Dad played quarterback at Lehigh.
Offensive Line
6-4 • 310
Mableton, Ga. • Pebblebrook HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Michael Woodridge at Pebblebrook HS … A two-time, second-team all-region selection … Rated the No. 205 interior offensive lineman in the country and the No. 238 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Ranked No. 206 interior offensive lineman and No. 241 in the state of Georgia by On3 … Also wrestled and participated in track & field.
PERSONAL: Born Kingtriton Bruce Samuela on December 11 in Waipahu, HI … Son of Tylin Walter … Has five siblings: Tyla, General, Tasmania, Tyra and Tyrissa … Father played defensive line at Fresno State.
Defensive Tackle
6-4 • 250
Lawrenceville, Ga. • Grayson HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Santavious Bryant at Grayson HS … Ranked the No. 99 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 109 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 130 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 127 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 48 defensive tackle in the country and the No. 86 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting … Ranked as the No. 28 defensive tackle in the country and the No. 64 player in the state by Rivals.
Running Back
6-0 • 210
Savannah, Ga. • Benedictine Military
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Benedictine Military School for Coach Danny Britt … The Region 3-4A Athlete of the Year as a senior … Totaled 1,098 all-purpose yards, including 633 rushing yards on 61 carries as a senior.
Defensive Back
6-0 • 175
Kennesaw, Ga. • North Cobb HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shane Queen at North Cobb HS … Tallied 40 tackles and five pass breakups as a senior, earning first-team Region 5-7A honors … Ranked the No. 242 cornerback in the country and the No. 235 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 226 cornerback in the country and the No. 240 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 158 cornerback in the country and the No. 178 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting.
PERSONAL: Born Phillip Lavon Gladney on December 16 in Marietta, GA … Son of Tammy Glandey and Reggie Gadney Sr. … Has five siblings: Neil Browning, Reggie Gladney Jr., Camden, Galdney, Aiden Gladney and Adriana Gladney.
Tight End
6-5 • 240
Warner Robins, Ga. • Warner Robins HS • Auburn
2023-24: Played in 12 games for Auburn … Had three catches for 21 yards … A semifinalist for the National Football Foundation's Campbell Trophy, college football's premier scholar-athlete award after completing his bachelor's degree in professional flight management at Auburn with a 3.76 grade point average … Named a College Sports Communicators academic all-district honoree.
2022-23: Played in 12 games with one start for the Tigers … A reserve tight end … Caught three passes for 51 yards on the season … Had a 35-yard reception vs. LSU, a career long … Named a CSC academic all-district honoree and to the SEC academic honor roll.
2021-22: Played in 13 games with two starts … Caught eight passes for 93 yards and a score … Had his first three career receptions and first touchdown on a 24-yd pass from Bo Nix at LSU … Had an 11-yard reception at Arkansas … Hauled in a 31-yard catch vs. Ole Miss … Posted three catches for 11 yards vs. Mississippi State … A game captain against Georgia … Named to the SEC academic honor roll, AD Honor Roll and Chi Alpha Sigma national student-athlete honorary.
2020-21: Played in one game during the COVID season … First action of the season came against LSU … Named to the SEC academic honor roll.
2019-20: True freshman tight end who battled injuries at Auburn … Did not see game action and was redshirted … Named to the AD Honor Roll and SEC First-Year Academic Honor Roll
HIGH SCHOOL: Coveted tight end prospect who enrolled at Auburn in January … A two-year starter for Coach Mike Chastain at Warner Robins High, helping the Demons to the Class 5A state championship title game … Named to the All-American Bowl … ESPN ranked him the No. 8 tight end recruit nationally … A top 40 overall prospect from the state of Georgia by Rivals and 247Sports … Also a basketball letterman.
PERSONAL: Birthday is December 18 … Son of Lee and Emerson Fromm … Brothers Dylan (Mercer) and Jake (Georgia) also played college football … Chi Alpha Sigma national student-athlete honor society.
MAJOR: Professional Flight Management (graduated; Auburn)
Offensive Line
6-3 • 310
Augusta, Ga. • Glenn Hills HS • Savannah State
2023-24: Started all 10 games for Savannah State … Entered the NCAA Transfer Portal in November.
2022-23: A second-team All-SIAC selection as an offensive lineman … Started all 10 games for SSU.
2021-22: A second-team All-SIAC selection as an offensive lineman … Started five games for the Tigers.
2020-21: Played defensive line for the Tigers … Did not see any game action during the COVID season played in the spring and was redshirted.
2019-20: Enrolled at Savannah State in the spring of 2020 … Went through spring practice.
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Brandon Tull at Glenn Hills HS … A Region 4-AA first-team selection as an offensive lineman as a senior … Made the first team as a tight end as a junior … Also played basketball … Was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in May of 2019, but was declared cancer-free in August after chemotherapy and three surgeries, including two biopsies.
PERSONAL: Born Kyle Imahn Frazier on August 2 in Augusta, GA … Son of Kenya James and James Frazier … Has three siblings: Kyvan, Keasia and Kianna … Is a spokesperson for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. MAJOR: Biology (graduated; SSU)
JALEN BURGESS
Offensive Line
6-3 • 270
Valdosta, Ga. • Valdosta HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shelton Felton at Valdosta HS … A Region 1-7A first-team selection as an offensive lineman as a senior … Rated the No. 155 offensive tackle in the country and the No. 197 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Ranked No. 114 interior offensive lineman and No. 163 in the state of Georgia by On3.
Defensive Tackle
6-2 • 340
Douglasville, Ga. • Douglas County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Johnny White at Douglas County HS … A first-team selection to the Region 5-6A team as a senior and junior … Totaled 64 tackles, including three sacks, and a quarterback hurry in 10 games as a junior … Listed the No. 209 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 238 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 210 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 210 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports.
Quarterback
6-2 • 210
Macon, Ga. • Mount de Sales Academy • Indiana
2023-24: Did not see any game action for Indiana … Was redshirted … Entered the NCAA Transfer Portal in November.
2022-23: Appeared in four games with two starts … Made his collegiate debut against Penn State … First collegiate start came at Michigan State … Completed 4 of 11 passes for 41 yards … Rushed four times for 24 yards against the Nittany Lions … Completed 6 of 19 passes for 107 yards at No. 2 Ohio State … Threw the first two touchdowns of his career … Rushed 16 times for 46 yards … Connected with AJ Barner on a 7-yard scoring pass in the first quarter … Hit Donaven McCulley on a 19-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against the Buckeyes … Rushed 16 times for 86 yards and completed two passes for 31 yards in first collegiate start at Michigan State … Ran for a 34-yard touchdown on the opening possession … Completed a two-point conversion to AJ Barner in double overtime … Made the start and was injured (knee) at the end of the first quarter versus Purdue … Completed his lone pass for 5 yards … Rushed four times for 9 yards.
2021-22: Did not see any game action in 2021 … Suffered an ACL injury in the spring … Was granted a medical hardship waiver … An Academic All-Big Ten honoree.
2020-21: Enrolled in spring classes and participated in practice at Indiana … Did not play in any games in the fall during the COVID season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Quarterback for head coach Carsten Franklin at Mount de Sales Academy … An all-state selection … The two-time Region 7A Offensive Player of the Year … A three-time all-region honoree … A two-time team captain selected to play in the 2020 Blue-Grey All-American Bowl … Named the Macon Telegraph Middle Georgia Player of the Year … Totaled 2,508 yards and 29 touchdowns as a senior … Completed 99 of 158 passes (62.7 percent) for 1,524 yards with 15 touchdowns … Rushed 135 times for 984 yards (7.3 average) with 14 scores … Led Mount de Sales to wins in 19 of his last 20 regular-season games and the school's first region championship in 23 years … Collected 5,088 total yards and 61 total touchdowns over his final two campaigns … Ranked the No. 21 dual-threat quarterback nationally by 247Sports.
PERSONAL: Born on February 1 … Son of Loretta Williams and Dexter Williams Sr.
MAJOR: Liberal Studies (Graduated; Indiana)
Jaylen SLAUGHTER
Offensive Line • 6-4 • 270 • Fr.
Atlanta, Ga.
Cedar Grove HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach John Adams at Cedar Grove High … Named the Offensive Lineman of the Year for Region5-3A as a senior.
PERSONAL: Born Jaylen Malik Slaughter on May 13 in Atlanta … Son of Alesia Bing … Has one sibling, Jalesia McKoy.
The bios below are from the December signees as well as the February addition. The full list of transfer and spring enrollees will be announced on Thursday. Additionally, Q&As and video interviews will be poated over the next month to highlight all the new mid-year enrollees.
The breakdown of the 25-player signing class is as follows:
Offense: 15 (QB: 2; RB: 2; TE: 2; WR: 4; OL: 5)
Defense: 10 (DL: 3; LB: 1; DB: 6)
From Georgia: 21 (third straight year GS has led the FBS in Georgia HS signees)
From North Carolina: 2
From Florida: 1
From Alabama: 1
| Name | Pos. | Ht. | Wt. | Hometown | High School/Last |
| Mikhai Isaac | Tight End | 6-4 | 205 | Warner Robins, Ga. | Warner Robins HS |
| Keon Davis | Wide Receiver | 6-2 | 190 | Atlanta, Ga. | Newton HS |
| CJ Allen | Linebacker | 6-0 | 205 | Jacksonville, Fla. | Sandalwood HS |
| Carmelo Mays | Wide Receiver | 6-2 | 195 | Macon, Ga. | Southwest Macon HS |
| Colin Alexander | Offensive Line | 6-5 | 285 | Stockbridge, Ga. | Dutchtown HS |
| Jaquari Brown | Cornerback | 6-2 | 180 | Warner Robins, Ga. | Houston County HS |
| Eli Anders | Defensive End | 6-5 | 230 | Cornelius, N.C. | Hough HS |
| Devin Collier | Safety | 5-11 | 200 | Albany, Ga. | Lee County HS |
| Elijah McDowell | Cornerback | 6-3 | 180 | Snellville, Ga | South Gwinnett HS |
| Jordan Woolen | Wide Receiver | 6-0 | 160 | Hoover, Ala. | Hoover HS |
| Taeo Todd | Running Back | 5-9 | 175 | West Point, Ga. | Troup County HS |
| Dorrian Smith | Cornerback | 6-0 | 185 | Fort Valley, Ga. | Peach County HS/Northeast Mississippi CC |
| Antavious Murphy | Wide Receiver | 5-9 | 185 | Bainbridge, Ga. | Bainbridge HS |
| Jaylen Bentley | Safety | 6-1 | 185 | Valdosta, Ga. | Valdosta HS |
| Tyler Budge | Quarterback | 6-3 | 205 | Matthews, N.C. | Weddington HS |
| Kingtriton Samuela | Offensive Line | 6-4 | 310 | Mableton, Ga. | Pebblebrook HS |
| Nasir Smith | Defensive Tackle | 6-4 | 250 | Lawrenceville, Ga. | Grayson HS |
| Bryce Baker | Running Back | 6-0 | 210 | Savannah, Ga. | Benedictine Military |
| Phillip Gladney | Defensive Back | 6-0 | 175 | Kennesaw, Ga. | North Cobb HS |
| Tyler Fromm | Tight End | 6-5 | 240 | Warner Robins, Ga. | Warner Robins HS/Auburn |
| Kyle Frazier | Offensive Line | 6-3 | 310 | Augusta, Ga. | Glenn Hills HS/Savannah State |
| Jalen Burgess | Offensive Line | 6-3 | 270 | Valdosta, Ga. | Valdosta HS |
| Korey Jordan | Defensive Tackle | 6-2 | 340 | Douglasville, Ga. | Douglas County HS |
| Dexter Williams II | Quarterback | 6-2 | 210 | Macon, Ga. | Mount de Sales Academy/Indiana |
| Jaylen Slaughter | Offensive Line | 6-4 | 270 | Ellenwood, Ga. | Cedar Grove |
THE BIOS
MIKHAI ISAAC
Tight End
6-4 • 205
Warner Robins, Ga. • Warner Robins HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shane Sams at Warner Robins HS … A first-team all-region selection for the 2-5A grouping as a senior … Rated the No. 131 tight end in the country and the No. 245 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports.
Time to #GATA24, @__1khai!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/nh5d4epskB
KEON DAVIS
Wide Receiver
6-2 • 190
Atlanta, Ga. • Newton HS
Time to #GATA24, @keondavis_!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/Bk91hWX2TP
CJ ALLEN
Linebacker
6-0 • 205
Jacksonville, Fla. • Sandalwood HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Adam Geis at Sandalwood HS … A two-time all-conference selection … As a senior, posted 98 tackles, an interception and a forced fumble … Rated the No. 167 linebacker in the country and the No. 232 player in the state of Florida by 247Sports.
Time to #GATA24, @Cjallen_1!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/qrUJG5Tks6
CARMELO MAYS
Wide Receiver
6-2 • 195
Macon, Ga. • Southwest Macon HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Joseph Dupree at Southwest Macon HS … The Region 2-2A Athlete/Specialist of the Year as a senior … An honorable mention all-state selection as a junior … A two-time all-region selection … Recorded 1,000 yards receiving two straight seasons … Rated the No. 229 wide receiver in the country and the No. 181 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Qualified for states in track.
Time to #GATA24, @carmelo_mays!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/HaK8WYeCoP
COLIN ALEXANDER
Offensive Line
6-5 • 285
Stockbridge, Ga. • Dutchtown HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Guy Mistretta at Dutchtown HS … A first-team all-region selection for the 2-5A grouping as a senior … Named all-state by the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association for Class 5A as a junior … An all-region selection for Group 2-5A as a junior … Rated the No. 194 interior offensive lineman in the country and the No. 241 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports.
Time to #GATA24, @cj_alexander06!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/1fjNyb1byy
JAQUARI BROWN
Cornerback
6-2 • 180
Warner Robins, Ga. • Houston County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Jeremy Edwards at Houston County HS … A first-team all-region selection for the 1-6A grouping as a senior … A second-team all-region selection as a sophomore … Rated the No. 179 cornerback in the country and the No. 185 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 192 cornerback in the country and the No. 183 player in the state by On3.
Time to #GATA24, @JaquariBrown6!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/UftURdGNpR
ELI ANDERS
Defensive End
6-5 • 230
Cornelius, N.C. • Hough HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach David Baker at Hough HS … A second-team 4A QCAC all-conference selection as a senior … Recorded 41 total tackles, including 7.0 for loss and 6.0 sacks, as a senior … Ranked the No. 149 edge rusher in the country and the No. 53 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 178 edge rusher in the country and the No. 62 player in the state of North Carolina by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 140 edge rusher in the country and the No. 46 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting.
PERSONAL: Born William Elijah Anders on May 3 in New Jersey … Son of Ingrid Langford and William Anders … Has a brother, Nolan, and a sister, Laila.
DEVIN COLLIERTime to #GATA24, @AndersEli4!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB #HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/NGrbDLPsBD
Safety
5-11 • 200
Albany, Ga. • Lee County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Lee County HS for Coach Dean Fabrizio … The Athlete of the Year for his play as a defensive back and receiver for the 4-7A grouping as a senior … A three-time all-region player and a two-time honorable mention all-state player … Had 76 carries for 551 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior … Also had two passing touchdowns, 523 kick return yards and 164 punt return yards … On defense, had 69 tackles, including 6.0 for loss and 3.0 sacks, along with four pass breakups … Ranked the No. 52 "athlete" in the country and the No. 177 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 154 safety in the country and the No. 148 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Earned all-region honors in track.
PERSONAL: Born Devin Shamar Collier on September 3 in Albany, GA … Son of Kelvin and Delorise Collier … Has three siblings: Victor Moore, Deantea Collier and Carlos Moore … Cousin is former NFL receiver Isaac Bruce.
ELIJAH MCDOWELLTime to #GATA24, @DevinCollier9!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/kzWcJQAyEB
Cornerback
6-3 • 180
Snellville, Ga. • South Gwinnett HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Bryan Lamar at South Gwinnett HS … A second-team all-region selection for the 4-7A grouping as a senior … Had 20 tackles and an interception as a senior in six games … Ranked the No. 138 safety in the country and the No. 172 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 148 cornerback in the country and the No. 163 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 150 safety in the country and the No. 168 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting … Played basketball and ran track.
PERSONAL: Born Elijah J. McDowell on October 27 in Atlanta … Son of Exabia and Angela McDowell … Has three siblings: Exavier, Evin and Avree … Exavier plays football at West Georgia.
JORDAN WOOLENTime to #GATA24, @ElijahMcdowell0!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/jXHkh3wPP3
Wide Receiver
6-0 • 160
Hoover, Ala. • Hoover HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Hoover HS for Coach Wade Waldrop … Named a first-team 7A Region 3 selection as a senior … Had 34 catches for 587 yards and six scores as a senior … A two-year starter who amassed 86 receptions for 1,371 Yards and 11 touchdowns along with 216 yards on kickoff returns … Named second-team all-state as a junior … Ranked the No. 98 wide receiver in the country and the No. 34 in the state of Alabama by 247Sports … Also played baseball and ran track.
PERSONAL: Born Jordan Lebron Woolen on June 19 in Hoover, AL … Son of Jerry and Crystal Woolen and Shannon Ashford … Has a sister, Madison, and a brother, Legend.
TAEO TODDTime to #GATA24, @jordanwoolen6!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/q4kRx5RPoO
Running Back
5-9 • 175
West Point, Ga. • Troup County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Troup County HS for Coach Tanner Glisson … Scored 12 touchdowns as a senior, six on the ground and six via receptions … Ranked the No. 45 "athlete" in the country and the No. 176 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 187 running back in the country and the No. 186 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Named 2022-23 GACA 4A Offensive Player of the Year … The 2021 Freshman of the Year … Also played basketball and ran track.
PERSONAL: Born Montaeo Alexander Todd on September 16 in West Point, GA … Son of Lachic Truitt and Brandon Todd … Has three siblings: Brandon Jr., Amari and Terez.
Time to #GATA24, @BeastTaeo!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/xTK2PplqmU
DORRIAN SMITH
Cornerback
6-0 • 185
Fort Valley, Ga. • Peach County HS • Northeast Mississippi CC
2023-24: Played in nine games at Northeast Mississippi CC … Had 22 tackles, including 1.5 for loss, and an interception … Also had five pass breakups … Signed with Georgia Southern in December of 2023.
2021-22: Attended Valdosta State, but did not see any action … Was redshirted.
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Chad Campbell at Peach County HS … A two-time first-team all-state selection by the GACA … A two-sport standout … Started three years in football and four years in basketball … Was first-team all-region in football … Had 20 catches for 534 yards and five interceptions as a senior … Named all-region in basketball.
PERSONAL: Born Dorrian Smith on July 7 in Warner Robins, GA … Son of Tabatha Hicks and Damian Smith … Has six siblings: Kaylie Mannm Tavarus Mann Jr., Malia Smith, Myleik Smith, Damian Smith Jr. and Daylen Smith.
ANTAVIOUS MURPHYTime to #GATA24, @dorrian03!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/5RdHH2kjZh
Wide Receiver
5-9 • 185
Bainbridge, Ga. • Bainbridge HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Jeff Littleton at Bainbridge HS … Had 64 receptions for 1,127 yards and 1,536 all-purpose yards as a senior to earn Region 1-4A Offensive Player of the Year accolades … Named all-state by the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association for the Class 4A as a junior … Was a first-team all-region receiver as a sophomore … Listed as the No. 225 wide receiver in the country and the No. 190 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 188 "athlete" in the country and the No. 155 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … In 2020, placed fourth in the state in the 300m hurdles … In 2021, placed sixth in the state in the 300m hurdles … In 2021, was the region champ in both the 110m and 300m hurdles.
PERSONAL: Born Antavious Garnez Murphy on January 4 in Bainbridge, GA … Son of Twyla Baker and Anthony Murphy … Has four siblings: Omariya, Cyrena, Mahogany and Desmond.
JAYLEN BENTLEYTime to #GATA24, @antavious2295!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/JFVSK1eW6G
Safety
6-1 • 185
Valdosta, Ga. • Valdosta HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shelton Felton at Valdosta HS … A first-team all-region selection as both a senior and junior … Had 58 tackles, including 12 for loss 3.0 three sacks, along with six quarterback hurries and an interception as a senior … Rated the No. 204 safety in the country and the No. 216 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Ranked No. 178 safety in the country and No. 198 in the state of Georgia by On3.
PERSONAL: Born Jaylen Tyrek Bentley on November 30 in Valdosta, GA … Son of Michael and Calandra Bentley.
Time to #GATA24, @jaylen_bentley!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/zqrq3B6TVz
TYLER BUDGE
Quarterback
6-3 • 205
Matthews, N.C. • Weddington HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Andy Capone at Weddington HS … Finished his senior season completing over 65% of his passes for 3,202 yards and 30 touchdowns … Also ran for 634 yards and 16 scores … Led his team to a North Carolina NCHSAA 4A state title as a senior … The SCC Offensive Player of the Year as both a junior and senior … Completed 230 of his 382 passing attempts for 3,219 yards and 34 touchdowns as a junior … A two-time Union County Offensive Player of the Year … A 2023 Shrine Bowl selection … Rated the No. 175 quarterback in the country and the No. 61 player in the state of North Carolina by 247Sports … Ranked the No. 61 quarterback (pocket passer) in the country and the No. 45 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting … Left as the school's all-time leader in career passing yards (6,521), career passing touchdowns (64), career completions, single-season passing yards, single-season passing touchdowns, single-season completions, passing yards in a game and passing touchdowns in a game … Had 1,017 career rushing yards and 20 touchdowns … Also played baseball.
PERSONAL: Born Tyler King Budge on April 18 in Charleston, SC … Son of Alexis and Stephen Budge … Has a sister, Hayden … Dad played quarterback at Lehigh.
KINGTRITON SAMUELATime to #GATA24, @tyler_budge12!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/ry4axuhd0Q
Offensive Line
6-4 • 310
Mableton, Ga. • Pebblebrook HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Michael Woodridge at Pebblebrook HS … A two-time, second-team all-region selection … Rated the No. 205 interior offensive lineman in the country and the No. 238 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Ranked No. 206 interior offensive lineman and No. 241 in the state of Georgia by On3 … Also wrestled and participated in track & field.
PERSONAL: Born Kingtriton Bruce Samuela on December 11 in Waipahu, HI … Son of Tylin Walter … Has five siblings: Tyla, General, Tasmania, Tyra and Tyrissa … Father played defensive line at Fresno State.
NASIR SMITHTime to #GATA24, @K_Samuela94!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/W1EgVhJaY1
Defensive Tackle
6-4 • 250
Lawrenceville, Ga. • Grayson HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Santavious Bryant at Grayson HS … Ranked the No. 99 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 109 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 130 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 127 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 48 defensive tackle in the country and the No. 86 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting … Ranked as the No. 28 defensive tackle in the country and the No. 64 player in the state by Rivals.
BRYCE BAKERTime to #GATA24, @NasirSmith99!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52Wp9#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/goKDN80IgU
Running Back
6-0 • 210
Savannah, Ga. • Benedictine Military
HIGH SCHOOL: Played at Benedictine Military School for Coach Danny Britt … The Region 3-4A Athlete of the Year as a senior … Totaled 1,098 all-purpose yards, including 633 rushing yards on 61 carries as a senior.
PHILLIP GLADNEYTime to #GATA24, @_BryceBaker!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB #HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/n95RrZDvq3
Defensive Back
6-0 • 175
Kennesaw, Ga. • North Cobb HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shane Queen at North Cobb HS … Tallied 40 tackles and five pass breakups as a senior, earning first-team Region 5-7A honors … Ranked the No. 242 cornerback in the country and the No. 235 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 226 cornerback in the country and the No. 240 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Listed as the No. 158 cornerback in the country and the No. 178 player in the state by ESPN Recruiting.
PERSONAL: Born Phillip Lavon Gladney on December 16 in Marietta, GA … Son of Tammy Glandey and Reggie Gadney Sr. … Has five siblings: Neil Browning, Reggie Gladney Jr., Camden, Galdney, Aiden Gladney and Adriana Gladney.
TYLER FROMMTime to #GATA24, @gladney_phillip!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/1Vt8AziJlx
Tight End
6-5 • 240
Warner Robins, Ga. • Warner Robins HS • Auburn
2023-24: Played in 12 games for Auburn … Had three catches for 21 yards … A semifinalist for the National Football Foundation's Campbell Trophy, college football's premier scholar-athlete award after completing his bachelor's degree in professional flight management at Auburn with a 3.76 grade point average … Named a College Sports Communicators academic all-district honoree.
2022-23: Played in 12 games with one start for the Tigers … A reserve tight end … Caught three passes for 51 yards on the season … Had a 35-yard reception vs. LSU, a career long … Named a CSC academic all-district honoree and to the SEC academic honor roll.
2021-22: Played in 13 games with two starts … Caught eight passes for 93 yards and a score … Had his first three career receptions and first touchdown on a 24-yd pass from Bo Nix at LSU … Had an 11-yard reception at Arkansas … Hauled in a 31-yard catch vs. Ole Miss … Posted three catches for 11 yards vs. Mississippi State … A game captain against Georgia … Named to the SEC academic honor roll, AD Honor Roll and Chi Alpha Sigma national student-athlete honorary.
2020-21: Played in one game during the COVID season … First action of the season came against LSU … Named to the SEC academic honor roll.
2019-20: True freshman tight end who battled injuries at Auburn … Did not see game action and was redshirted … Named to the AD Honor Roll and SEC First-Year Academic Honor Roll
HIGH SCHOOL: Coveted tight end prospect who enrolled at Auburn in January … A two-year starter for Coach Mike Chastain at Warner Robins High, helping the Demons to the Class 5A state championship title game … Named to the All-American Bowl … ESPN ranked him the No. 8 tight end recruit nationally … A top 40 overall prospect from the state of Georgia by Rivals and 247Sports … Also a basketball letterman.
PERSONAL: Birthday is December 18 … Son of Lee and Emerson Fromm … Brothers Dylan (Mercer) and Jake (Georgia) also played college football … Chi Alpha Sigma national student-athlete honor society.
MAJOR: Professional Flight Management (graduated; Auburn)
KYLE FRAZIERTime to #GATA24, @FrommTyler!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/m9jEVA911O
Offensive Line
6-3 • 310
Augusta, Ga. • Glenn Hills HS • Savannah State
2023-24: Started all 10 games for Savannah State … Entered the NCAA Transfer Portal in November.
2022-23: A second-team All-SIAC selection as an offensive lineman … Started all 10 games for SSU.
2021-22: A second-team All-SIAC selection as an offensive lineman … Started five games for the Tigers.
2020-21: Played defensive line for the Tigers … Did not see any game action during the COVID season played in the spring and was redshirted.
2019-20: Enrolled at Savannah State in the spring of 2020 … Went through spring practice.
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Brandon Tull at Glenn Hills HS … A Region 4-AA first-team selection as an offensive lineman as a senior … Made the first team as a tight end as a junior … Also played basketball … Was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in May of 2019, but was declared cancer-free in August after chemotherapy and three surgeries, including two biopsies.
PERSONAL: Born Kyle Imahn Frazier on August 2 in Augusta, GA … Son of Kenya James and James Frazier … Has three siblings: Kyvan, Keasia and Kianna … Is a spokesperson for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. MAJOR: Biology (graduated; SSU)
Time to #GATA24, @KyleFrazier44!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/Cl5dExXei8
JALEN BURGESS
Offensive Line
6-3 • 270
Valdosta, Ga. • Valdosta HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Shelton Felton at Valdosta HS … A Region 1-7A first-team selection as an offensive lineman as a senior … Rated the No. 155 offensive tackle in the country and the No. 197 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports … Ranked No. 114 interior offensive lineman and No. 163 in the state of Georgia by On3.
KOREY JORDANTime to #GATA24, @Jalen_b2!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB #HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/5SiUh70Jt5
Defensive Tackle
6-2 • 340
Douglasville, Ga. • Douglas County HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach Johnny White at Douglas County HS … A first-team selection to the Region 5-6A team as a senior and junior … Totaled 64 tackles, including three sacks, and a quarterback hurry in 10 games as a junior … Listed the No. 209 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 238 player in the state by On3 … Rated the No. 210 defensive lineman in the country and the No. 210 player in the state of Georgia by 247Sports.
DEXTER WILLIAMS IITime to #GATA24, @kj2official!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 20, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/Lk4PnWt1Sx
Quarterback
6-2 • 210
Macon, Ga. • Mount de Sales Academy • Indiana
2023-24: Did not see any game action for Indiana … Was redshirted … Entered the NCAA Transfer Portal in November.
2022-23: Appeared in four games with two starts … Made his collegiate debut against Penn State … First collegiate start came at Michigan State … Completed 4 of 11 passes for 41 yards … Rushed four times for 24 yards against the Nittany Lions … Completed 6 of 19 passes for 107 yards at No. 2 Ohio State … Threw the first two touchdowns of his career … Rushed 16 times for 46 yards … Connected with AJ Barner on a 7-yard scoring pass in the first quarter … Hit Donaven McCulley on a 19-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against the Buckeyes … Rushed 16 times for 86 yards and completed two passes for 31 yards in first collegiate start at Michigan State … Ran for a 34-yard touchdown on the opening possession … Completed a two-point conversion to AJ Barner in double overtime … Made the start and was injured (knee) at the end of the first quarter versus Purdue … Completed his lone pass for 5 yards … Rushed four times for 9 yards.
2021-22: Did not see any game action in 2021 … Suffered an ACL injury in the spring … Was granted a medical hardship waiver … An Academic All-Big Ten honoree.
2020-21: Enrolled in spring classes and participated in practice at Indiana … Did not play in any games in the fall during the COVID season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Quarterback for head coach Carsten Franklin at Mount de Sales Academy … An all-state selection … The two-time Region 7A Offensive Player of the Year … A three-time all-region honoree … A two-time team captain selected to play in the 2020 Blue-Grey All-American Bowl … Named the Macon Telegraph Middle Georgia Player of the Year … Totaled 2,508 yards and 29 touchdowns as a senior … Completed 99 of 158 passes (62.7 percent) for 1,524 yards with 15 touchdowns … Rushed 135 times for 984 yards (7.3 average) with 14 scores … Led Mount de Sales to wins in 19 of his last 20 regular-season games and the school's first region championship in 23 years … Collected 5,088 total yards and 61 total touchdowns over his final two campaigns … Ranked the No. 21 dual-threat quarterback nationally by 247Sports.
PERSONAL: Born on February 1 … Son of Loretta Williams and Dexter Williams Sr.
MAJOR: Liberal Studies (Graduated; Indiana)
Time to #GATA24, @dex5will!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) December 21, 2023
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/hXeISuIfJN
Jaylen SLAUGHTER
Offensive Line • 6-4 • 270 • Fr.
Atlanta, Ga.
Cedar Grove HS
HIGH SCHOOL: Played for Coach John Adams at Cedar Grove High … Named the Offensive Lineman of the Year for Region5-3A as a senior.
PERSONAL: Born Jaylen Malik Slaughter on May 13 in Atlanta … Son of Alesia Bing … Has one sibling, Jalesia McKoy.
Time to #GATA24, @jaylenslaughter!
— Georgia Southern Football (@GSAthletics_FB) February 7, 2024
📰 https://t.co/a65vY52ozB#HailSouthern pic.twitter.com/ZkoAgUKgMp
Clay Helton Media Availability: National Signing Day (12/3/25)
Wednesday, December 03
Georgia Southern vs. Marshall Highlights (11/29/25)
Sunday, November 30
Hail Southern Live! (11-24-2025)
Tuesday, November 25
The GATA Zone: Men's Soccer Post-Season
Thursday, November 20
