Georgia Hires New Outside Linebackers Coach

Larry Knight, an Augusta native, joins the Bulldogs after a stint at Arkansas State.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Georgia has hired Larry Knight as its new outside linebackers coach. Knight, an Augusta native, previously coached at West Virginia and Arkansas State, where his defense finished 9th in the nation in sacks last season.

Why it matters

This hire is significant for Georgia as they look to bolster their pass rush and outside linebacker production after losing their previous coach in that role. Knight's experience developing a strong pass rush at Arkansas State could help the Bulldogs improve in that area.

The details

Georgia announced the hiring of Larry Knight as their new outside linebackers coach on Tuesday. Knight was previously hired by West Virginia in January but is now leaving that role to join the Bulldogs. Last season, Knight served as the defensive ends coach and run game coordinator at Arkansas State, where the team finished 9th nationally in sacks with 39.

  • Georgia announced the hiring on February 17, 2026.
  • Knight was hired by West Virginia in January 2026 before leaving for Georgia.

The players

Kirby Smart

The head football coach at the University of Georgia.

Larry Knight

The new outside linebackers coach at the University of Georgia, who is an Augusta native and previously coached at West Virginia and Arkansas State.

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What they’re saying

“I know he is ready to get to work in his home state.”

— Kirby Smart, Head Football Coach, University of Georgia (AJC)

What’s next

Knight will begin his new role with the Georgia Bulldogs immediately as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season.

The takeaway

This hire of an experienced outside linebackers coach with a track record of developing a strong pass rush could be a key addition for the Georgia Bulldogs as they look to improve their defense and compete for another SEC championship.