Kirby Smart reacts after Panthers draft Georgia OT Monroe Freeling

Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart has coached 21 first-round picks during his 10 years at the University of Georgia . He's also had just 21 losses. Smart knows a thing or two about talented players and what it takes to win.

The latest Georgia player to be a first-round pick is towering offensive tackle Monroe Freeling . The Carolina Panthers drafted Freeling with the No. 19 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

"Congrats Monroe Freeling! " Smart said via social media. "It has been awesome watching you grow over the past three years.

The Panthers are getting a great leader and a force in the trenches. GO DAWGS!! " The 6-foot-7, 315-pound offensive tackle has elite athleticism and ideal size for an NFL offensive lineman.