Latest Georgia Bulldogs commitment earns comparison to Steelers star George Pickens

The Georgia Bulldogs landed its first wide receiver of the 2025 class on Sunday as 3-star prospect Thomas Blackshear sent in his commitment. From Savannah, the local product opted to stay home over going to Tennessee, Florida State, and Florida. He had a standing offer since June 2023.

New wide receivers coach James Coley was hot in pursuit of Blackshear, and it's easy to see why if his comparison to George Pickens is correct. The 6-foot-1, 199-pounder has the same lanky but strong frame that Pickens used to become a second-round pick with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pickens was a physical force while at Georgia, totaling 1,347 yards and 14 touchdowns in 26 games.

"He makes me feel like a priority," Blackshear told UGASports. "He texts me almost every day, letting me know I’ll be a good person at Georgia. I’ll fit in their offense well. They’re getting to throw the ball a little bit more."

Coley hinted that Blackshear will assume a similar role as an outside receiver in Georgia's explosive offense. Meanwhile, Blackshear has been impressed by the Bulldogs' continued success in sending talent to the NFL. Clearly, this was a nod to Ladd McConkey being taken in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. 

Blackshear has become the ninth player to commit to Georgia's 2025 class. He will be joining other offensive commits in the class such as quarterback Ryan Montgomery, running back Bo Walker, tight ends Ethan Barbour, and Elyiss Williams, as well as offensive lineman Mason Short.

The door will be open for Blackshear to make an early impact. By the time he's on campus, only Anthony Evans, Dillon Bell, London Humphreys, Nitro Tuggle, Sacovie White, and Cole Speer will have more experience than him. Practices will go a long way in determining who emerges as a star from this group.