Kirby Smart Featured in EA Sports College Football 26 as Iconic Coach—UGA Legend Champ Bailey Returns in Major Staff Role

In a week full of fireworks for Georgia Bulldogs fans, two seismic developments have emerged—both honoring the program’s illustrious past while securing its promising future. Head coach Kirby Smart will officially appear in EA Sports’ highly anticipated College Football 26 video game, and in a move that has already ignited massive buzz across the Bulldog Nation, former Georgia standout and College Football Hall of Famer Champ Bailey is returning to Athens as the team’s new Associate Head Coach.

The announcement of Kirby Smart’s likeness being featured in College Football 26 marks a defining moment not just for the Bulldogs, but for college football at large. As one of the most successful and recognizable coaches in the modern era, Smart’s inclusion is a nod to Georgia’s recent dominance and sustained excellence under his leadership. Smart becomes one of the select few active coaches to have their official likeness and name used in the game, signaling his iconic status in the sport.

Since taking the reins of the Bulldogs in 2016, Smart has transformed Georgia into a perennial powerhouse, capturing back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, along with multiple SEC titles. His blend of elite recruiting, defensive mastery, and a relentless focus on player development has made him a household name. With the return of EA Sports’ legendary video game series after more than a decade, it’s only fitting that one of the game’s modern titans gets his place on the virtual sidelines.

Fans can now not only play as their favorite teams but also lead the Dawgs under the digital version of Kirby Smart—complete with his signature visor and sideline swagger. According to sources close to the development, Smart personally approved his likeness and was involved in elements of the design to ensure authenticity. His inclusion is expected to be a major draw for fans, especially in the Southeast where college football loyalty runs deep.

But just as excitement surged around Smart’s virtual debut, Georgia stunned the college football world again—this time in real life. The legendary Champ Bailey is officially back in Athens. The former UGA and NFL star will join Smart’s staff as Associate Head Coach, a role that goes beyond position duties and enters the realm of strategic leadership.

Bailey, a generational talent during his playing days, was one of the most versatile players in Georgia history. Between his lockdown coverage, dynamic special teams work, and occasional offensive cameos, Bailey was the ultimate Swiss army knife. He went on to earn 12 Pro Bowl selections in the NFL and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019. Now, he brings that wealth of experience—and unmatched Georgia pedigree—back to where it all started.

His return isn’t ceremonial. Sources within the program describe Bailey’s role as “critical” to the Bulldogs’ future recruiting and defensive planning. He’s expected to have major influence on player mentorship, defensive backs coaching, and program culture. Bailey, who has long expressed a desire to give back to UGA, said in a brief statement, “This place shaped me. I’m here to help shape the next generation of champions.”

Kirby Smart has often emphasized the importance of legacy and connection to the program’s roots. Bringing Bailey into the fold solidifies that vision. “Champ isn’t just a Georgia legend—he’s a winner, a competitor, and a leader. He understands what it takes to succeed at the highest levels, and he’s going to be an incredible asset to our players and staff,” Smart said.

The timing of both announcements—just as Georgia begins to gear up for its 2025 campaign—couldn’t be better. With Carson Beck returning for one final season, a stacked recruiting class, and now the addition of Bailey to the coaching staff, the Dawgs are well-positioned for another title run.

Off the field, the visibility provided by Smart’s appearance in College Football 26 will help keep Georgia front-of-mind for the next wave of elite high school talent. In an age where digital branding and national exposure are more crucial than ever in recruiting, Georgia continues to fire on all cylinders.