Georgia Bulldogs Add New Defensive Coaches

Former Arkansas State coach Larry Knight joins staff, while Maurice Smith and Robert Edwards also take on new roles

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Georgia Bulldogs have made several additions to their coaching staff, including the hiring of former Arkansas State defensive coordinator Larry Knight to lead the EDGE/outside linebacker room. Additionally, Maurice Smith is joining the staff in a defensive quality control role, while Georgia great Robert Edwards is also coming on board to replace David Hill, who left for Colorado State. Elsewhere, Jalen Harris is being promoted to assistant wide receivers coach.

Why it matters

These coaching hires and promotions are important for the Georgia Bulldogs as they look to maintain their status as one of the top programs in college football. Knight brings valuable experience and recruiting prowess, while Smith and Edwards provide familiarity with the program and its culture. The staff changes also reflect Georgia's commitment to developing its players and coaches.

The details

Larry Knight, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Arkansas State, will now lead the EDGE/outside linebacker room for the Bulldogs. Knight has worked alongside current Georgia assistants Andrew Thacker and Fran Brown in the past, and is known for his ability to develop NFL-caliber talent. Maurice Smith, a former Georgia player, is joining the staff in a defensive quality control role after working for the team for free last year. Robert Edwards, a standout running back for the Bulldogs in the past, is also coming on board, likely to replace David Hill, who left for Colorado State. Additionally, Jalen Harris is being promoted to assistant wide receivers coach.

  • The coaching changes were announced on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Larry Knight

Newly hired defensive coordinator who previously served in the same role at Arkansas State.

Maurice Smith

Former Georgia player who is joining the staff in a defensive quality control role after working for the team for free last year.

Robert Edwards

Georgia great and former standout running back who is joining the program, likely to replace David Hill who left for Colorado State.

Jalen Harris

Former Auburn and Colorado tight end who is being promoted to assistant wide receivers coach.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to have Larry Knight join our staff. He's a proven defensive coach with a track record of developing talent and recruiting at a high level.”

— Kirby Smart, Head Coach, Georgia Bulldogs (Georgia Athletics)

What’s next

The new coaches will begin their roles immediately as the Bulldogs prepare for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

These coaching changes demonstrate Georgia's commitment to maintaining its status as an elite program by bringing in experienced, proven coaches who can continue to develop players and recruit at a high level. The additions of Knight, Smith, and Edwards, along with the promotion of Harris, should help the Bulldogs remain among the top teams in college football.