The 6-foot-3.5, 315-pound senior defensive tackle made a remarkable comeback, recording four tackles, two sacks, two quarterback hurries, and an interception from a film study read in a 39-17 victory over a strong McEachern team.
“I’m a physical player,” he said when describing his style. “I’m dominant. I want people to recognize that dominance. I can take over a game in an instant”
Braxton Kyle recruiting stock has risen sharply with recent offers from Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas. Despite this, he remains committed to Rutgers for now. Balancing these new opportunities with his current commitment isn’t easy, but he’s navigating it with a clear sense of loyalty and respect.
Georgia and Texas offer more prestigious programs compared to Rutgers, and the Georgia offer, in particular, resonates with him due to his long-time following of the Dawgs. He also wants to honor his commitment to Rutgers, which was a significant moment for his family.
He deserves credit for handling the situation thoughtfully, trying to balance his options while not making his eventual decision too apparent. It’s admirable how he’s managing this process.
“I like Rutgers,” he said. “But it’s exciting to see these other big schools showing interest and valuing my game.”
Georgia began showing interest before 4-star defensive tackle Christian Garrett decommitted, and their pursuit has intensified since then.
“They’re recruiting me pretty hard after that D-tackle decommitment,” Kyle said. “They see me as a strong fit for their team.”
Kyle wore a pair of UGA gloves during his season opener. Why is he considering Georgia?
“Because I’m a kid from Georgia,” he explained.
Kyle attended a UGA camp last summer and performed well, and his strong showing continued this summer. The UGA offer came just two days before Garrett’s public decommitment.
Scott extended the offer to him because he recognized his development over the years. “He says I’m well-developed,” Kyle explained. “He mentioned he’s been watching me throughout high school and has seen my improvement.”
Receiving the offer was a validating moment for Kyle. “I was really happy because it shows that the hard work I’ve put in is paying off,” he said. “People would be sleeping, and I’d wake up early for training, then run up the hill in my neighborhood. It just proves that it paid off.”
Kyle attended UGA games against Ball State and Ole Miss last season but isn’t sure about future visits. “I’m not sure right now, but you never know what might happen in the future,” he said.
Regarding how Georgia views him, Kyle noted, “Coach [Tray] Scott mentioned that I could even play defensive end at UGA. I thought that was impressive given my size.”
At North Gwinnett, Kyle played alongside current Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, who was a “great role model” and helped him develop his skills.
North Gwinnett coach Eric Godfree praised Kyle’s work ethic. “What I love is how well he runs to the ball,” Godfree said. “Most defensive tackles don’t make sideline tackles, but he does. He comes off the ball well and is tough to handle when he uses his hands.”
Godfree described Kyle as a “high-effort” player. “He’ll shed blocks, chase down outside zones, and if the ball cuts upfield, he’s right there running through the running back,” Godfree added. “I’ve seen him make sideline tackles and even block a punt in the state playoffs last November.”
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