Former UGA Defensive Lineman David Jacobs Reflects on Remarkable Career

Jacobs overcame a near-fatal stroke to become an inspiration and mentor to current Bulldogs players

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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UGASports caught up with former Georgia defensive lineman David Jacobs, who was destined for the NFL before suffering a near-fatal stroke 25 years ago during the 2001 season. The stroke impacted the left side of Jacobs' brain, paralyzing his entire right side and ending his football-playing career. Despite the setback, Jacobs became an inspiration to many as he battled back from paralysis to join his teammates on the sidelines as an observer during the 2002 SEC championship season. Jacobs later got into coaching and has now worked in the mortgage business for over 20 years. He also discusses the recruitment of his two sons, who are top prospects in the 2027 and 2028 classes.

Why it matters

Jacobs' story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience in the face of adversity. His journey from a promising college football player to an inspirational figure who overcame a near-fatal stroke has made him a role model for many, both within the Georgia football community and beyond. The establishment of the David Jacobs Award, given annually to the player who most portrays courage, spirit, character, and determination, further solidifies his legacy and impact on the program.

The details

Jacobs was a highly recruited defensive end coming out of Westlake High School in Atlanta, who was part of one of the most touted signing classes (1998) in UGA football history at the time. After playing somewhat of an obscure role his first two seasons as a Bulldog, Jacobs emerged as a standout nose tackle in 2001, leading the team in tackles for loss and quarterback pressures through the first eight games of the season. However, his promising junior campaign was cut short when he suffered a near-fatal stroke in mid-November, which left him paralyzed on the right side of his body. Despite the setback, Jacobs battled back and was able to join his teammates on the sidelines as an observer during the 2002 SEC championship season.

  • Jacobs suffered the stroke in mid-November of 2001.
  • It took Jacobs six months before he was able to walk again.
  • Jacobs joined his teammates on the sidelines as an observer during the 2002 SEC championship season.

The players

David Jacobs

A former defensive lineman for the University of Georgia who suffered a near-fatal stroke in 2001, ending his football-playing career.

Rodney Garner

An assistant coach who recruited Jacobs to the University of Georgia after previously recruiting him to the University of Tennessee.

Jim Donnan

The head coach of the University of Georgia football team during Jacobs' time as a player.

Charles Grant

A fellow freshman defensive lineman who took Jacobs' starting spot early in his redshirt season.

Richard Seymour

An eventual Pro Football Hall of Famer who was Jacobs' teammate and the starter at defensive tackle ahead of him in 2000.

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What they’re saying

“When I first started playing for Georgia, I made my fair share of mistakes. And it's natural for good players to learn from those mistakes—learn from what I was doing. And once those teammates got their starting opportunity, they were able to seize the moment and secure the position.”

— David Jacobs (UGASports)

“At the time, all I was really aware of was that the entire right side of my body was completely paralyzed. And, if I was going to recover from it, I would have to fight—fight for the game of life. So, I put everything into my rehab, fought hard, while recovering from the stroke.”

— David Jacobs (UGASports)

“Coach Richt is amazing—an amazing man and amazing role model. He has always maintained a great relationship with my entire family. He's David's Godfather. Over the years, Coach Richt has always been there anytime I needed to talk.”

— David Jacobs (UGASports)

The takeaway

Jacobs' story is a powerful example of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite the devastating setback of a near-fatal stroke, he fought tirelessly to recover and remained connected to the Georgia football program, becoming an inspiration to current and future Bulldogs players. His legacy lives on through the annual David Jacobs Award, honoring those who embody the same courage, spirit, and determination that defined his own journey.