Georgia flips Auburn CB commit Nash Johnson ahead of Week 7 rivalry showdown

The Georgia Bulldogs landed a recruiting win over the Auburn Tigers before the rivals meet on Saturday in Athens. 

Three-star cornerback Nash Johnson flipped his commitment from Auburn to Georgia on Tuesday, becoming the Bulldogs’ first cornerback pledge in the 2027 class.

In an article for On3/Rivals, Chad Simmons shared Johnson’s explanation of how Georgia’s player development and emphasis on personal growth helped shape his decision:

“I like what they have going on, the way they develop DBs, and how I feel like they can help me grow not just as a football player but as a man too. I feel like Georgia can prepare me for the next level and push me to be the best version of myself on and off the field.”

Johnson had committed to the Tigers on May 31 after reopening his recruitment following an earlier pledge to the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Bulldogs remained involved, hosting him on an official visit in late September while he was still committed to Auburn.

Kirby Smart’s standards resonate with Nash Johnson

Johnson additionally highlighted head coach Kirby Smart’s expectations while explaining his decision to Simmons:

“Coach Smart holds his players accountable and pushes them to be great at everything they do. It’s bigger than just football with him, he wants his players to be disciplined, tough, and carry themselves the right way as men.”

The commitment fills an opening in the Bulldogs’ recruiting class at cornerback and keeps an in-state prospect in Georgia. For the Tigers, it removes a defensive back pledge secured earlier in first-year coach Alex Golesh’s tenure.

The senior cornerback had built a strong relationship with Tigers cornerbacks coach DeMarcus Van Dyke, but his September visit left the door open for another decision.

The recruiting outcome is settled ahead of the teams’ meeting. The No. 1 ranked Bulldogs host the Tigers on Saturday with Johnson committed to their side of the rivalry.