NFL players from Georgia are scheduled to compete in the Super Bowl.
Las Vegas is set to host a Super Bowl clash on Sunday, Feb. 11, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs vying for their second consecutive Super Bowl win and third in the last five seasons. Their opponents, the San Francisco 49ers, are in pursuit of their sixth Lombardi Trophy as a franchise, marking their first championship attempt since 1995.
The teams faced off in the Super Bowl just four years ago in 2020, where the Chiefs secured a 31-20 victory over the 49ers. Despite changes in both teams since then, one constant factor is the representation of the Georgia Bulldogs on the grand stage of football.
Chris Conley, the 49ers’ wide receiver, holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured pro among the Georgia alumni. Drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft, Conley showcased his skills at Georgia with impressive statistics. His draft stock soared after a remarkable NFL Combine performance, leading to four seasons with the Chiefs before making stops in Jacksonville, Houston, and Tennessee. Joining the 49ers in April 2023, Conley spent the season on the practice squad before earning a promotion to the active roster in December. His pivotal 17-yard gain in the playoffs against the Green Bay Packers contributed significantly to the 49ers’ eventual game-winning touchdown.
Mecole Hardman, a Chiefs wide receiver, is the sole former Bulldog on either team who participated in the 2020 Super Bowl encounter. Drafted by the Chiefs in the second round of the 2019 NFL draft, Hardman showcased his versatility as a wideout and return specialist during his time at Georgia. Although he faced a brief stint with the New York Jets in 2023, he returned to the Chiefs in October. Despite facing challenges in the playoffs, his experience from the 2019 team might prove valuable in the Super Bowl.
Charlie Woerner, the 49ers’ tight end, may not have stood out statistically at Georgia, but his prowess as a blocking tight end earned him a spot in the NFL. Drafted by the 49ers in 2020, Woerner has played a crucial role in San Francisco’s rushing success, appearing in all 17 games and receiving significant snaps. With the 49ers facing a formidable defensive front in Kansas City, Woerner’s blocking skills will be crucial in creating opportunities for the team’s stars.
Malik Herring, a Chiefs defensive lineman, faced challenges on his journey to the NFL, going undrafted in 2021 due to a torn ACL suffered before the draft. Signed by the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent, Herring spent his rookie season recovering before earning a spot on the active roster. Despite the odds, Herring’s determination and grit could be on display in the Super Bowl, especially with injuries to key defensive players.
Robert Beal Jr., the 49ers’ edge rusher, possesses the rare opportunity to win three consecutive championships. A key contributor to Georgia’s national title teams in 2021 and 2022, Beal was drafted by the 49ers in the fifth round of the recent NFL Draft. Although his rookie year with the 49ers was hampered by injuries, Beal looks forward to making an impact in the upcoming championship game.
