Georgia LB Isaiah Gibson Aims to Shine in Year 2

Former five-star recruit looks to build on first-year experience with Bulldogs

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Georgia outside linebacker Isaiah Gibson, a former five-star prospect, is ready to take on a bigger role in his second season with the Bulldogs. After playing a limited role as a true freshman, Gibson spent the offseason sharpening his skills and is focused on improving his mobility, run defense, and pass rushing abilities under the guidance of new outside linebackers coach Larry Knight.

Why it matters

Gibson was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, and Georgia fans have high expectations for the young linebacker. His development will be crucial for the Bulldogs' defense as they look to build on their success from last season.

The details

Gibson played in just three games as a true freshman, recording one tackle. However, he embraced the experience and used his redshirt year to focus on getting better. Gibson says he has improved his mobility and run defense, and he is eager to show off his progress in 2026. With a new position coach in Larry Knight, Gibson is confident he can reach his full potential and play a bigger role for the Bulldogs.

  • Gibson was one of Georgia's mid-year enrollees before the 2025 Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame.
  • Gibson played in games against Marshall, Kentucky, and Charlotte in the 2025 season.
  • Gibson recorded his only tackle in Georgia's Week 13 win over Charlotte in 2025.

The players

Isaiah Gibson

A former five-star prospect and outside linebacker for the Georgia Bulldogs.

Larry Knight

The new outside linebackers coach for the Georgia Bulldogs, hired from West Virginia.

Gabe Harris

A Georgia outside linebacker who helped mentor Gibson as a freshman.

Quintavius Johnson

A Georgia outside linebacker who helped mentor Gibson as a freshman.

Elo Modozie

A Georgia outside linebacker who helped mentor Gibson as a freshman.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like I've turned a corner for sure. Every day I'm still focused on getting the team better, getting myself better, doing what I have to do to improve myself — but not only myself but also the team. It's like, if I'm doing good, it's going to push them to do better.”

— Isaiah Gibson (247sports.com)

“Honestly, I just really want to get bigger, you know what I'm saying? Better in pass rush, better in the run game. I feel like better overall, really.”

— Isaiah Gibson (247sports.com)

What’s next

Gibson will work closely with new outside linebackers coach Larry Knight to continue developing his skills and earning a larger role in the Bulldogs' defense.

The takeaway

After a limited role as a true freshman, Isaiah Gibson is poised to take a big step forward in his second season with the Georgia Bulldogs. With a focus on improving his overall game, Gibson has the potential to become a key contributor on a talented Bulldogs defense.