By now, we all know that the No. 1 safety in the class of 2024 and no. 13 overall player, KJ Bolden, flipped in favor of Georgia. Responding to a question regarding KJ, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart stated, “I don’t see kids as committed to other places because they’re not signed. I just know that we recruit good football players. We evaluate every player the same, whether they are committed or not.”
Everyone on the Georgia staff got excited when KJ Bolden revealed his last-minute decision to choose Georgia. Not only were his coaches surprised, but his mother was as well, having learned of his decision only hours prior. With that said, let us focus on KJ Bolden’s journey and hear from his family as well.
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Born and brought up in Buford, Georgia, KJ grew up with love and support nurtured by his parents, Kai Bolden and LaKiesha Wright. Since a young age, KJ has been drawn to football and used to play it while he was in Buford. While talking about his commitment, his mom said, “I love Georgia.” I love Kirby. I love what they do at Georgia. Kirby has always been one of KJ’s biggest fans, coach-wise. He’s always been there. She expressed her natural inclination towards the team and the coaching staff. Additionally, KJ’s playing style has allowed him to establish himself at his high school.
Career highlights of KJ Bolden
Not only is Bolden versatile on the football field, but he is also a great athlete, and he proved it by being called the top ten in the Georgia 6A state meet for the 100-yard dash as a freshman. With that being said, look at his senior year score at Buford, where he recorded 33 tackles, of which 18 he tackled solo with four interceptions and three passes. Bolden averaged 2.5 tackles per game, which is quite higher than the national average as a safety. Bolden highlights his ability to read plays and grab opportunities with his interception rate of 0.3 per game.
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In addition to his defensive prowess, Bolden also made a significant mark on the offensive side. During his junior year, he completed 30 receptions for 663 yards combined with 14 touchdowns, which showcased his versatility as a player capable of impacting the game through his play. Several awards added a cheery on top to his high school career, such as being named for the All-American Bowl and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Georgia Super 11 (for the top high school football players in the state). On top of that, he was a semifinalist for the Maxwell Football Club Defensive Player of the Year.
Following a hit high school career, Bolden is set to hit the field at the University of Georgia after flipping from Florida State. The No. 1 safety and No. 13 overall prospect has already started paying attention to the drill by enrolling early in January 2024. He had been seen practicing for the fall season up until that point, taking part in spring drills. KJ Bolden’s great physical attributes—standing at 6 feet and weighing 185 pounds altogether—and a remarkable high school experience put him well for success in college football. As he transitions into his freshman year at Georgia, all eyes are on him to see how he strengthens the team in the upcoming season.
