Georgia DL signee Joseph Jonah-Ajonye earns 5-star status in final On3 Industry Ranking

Kirby Smart and Georgia assembled the nation’s No. 1 football recruiting class in 2024, largely built around defense.

Of the Bulldogs quintet of five-star signees, all five project to play on the defensive side of the ball in Athens. The group features a pair of defensive backs, two linebackers and one of the nation’s elite defensive linemen, Joseph Jonah-Ajonye.

On Monday, when On3 an ESPN both released their final player rankings for the 2024 class, Jonah-Ajonye earned five-star status in the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

The 6-foot-4, 275-pounder checks in as the No. 29 overall prospect in the class, the nation’s No. 6 defensive lineman and the No. 6 recruit in Texas.

Bulldogs were his ‘dream school’

Jonah-Ajonye committed to the Bulldogs in early July, choosing Georgia over the likes of Oklahoma and Texas. For the coveted defender, it was a dream come true.

“That phone call made me really happy because Georgia is my dream school. I was really happy to talk to Coach [Tray] Scott about that,” Jonah-Ajonye told SoonerScoop’s Josh McCuiston after receiving his offer from the Bulldogs. “We were on the phone for like 40 minutes, and then, he offered me. I didn’t even know I was going to get the offer. I thought it was just an interest. I was really happy. That made my entire month. That made my entire month.”

Jonah-Ajonye signed with UGA in December and was one of a handful of players to join the Bulldogs for bowl practices leading up to the Fiesta Bowl.

Scouting Report on Joseph Jonah-Ajonye

On3’s Scouting and Rankings team writes this about him as a prospect:

“Athletic, versatile defensive lineman with one of the higher developmental upsides at the position in the 2024 cycle. Measured at around 6-foot-3.5, 275 pounds prior to his senior season. Has a big frame and plus length with a 10.5-inch hand and arms that measure over 34 inches. An easy, natural athlete who moves like a much smaller player. Lines up at defensive end and inside on Friday nights. Flashes outstanding speed in pursuit, running down plays from the backside. Plays to the whistle and makes second effort plays. Shows quick hands at the point of attack.

… Is a mismatch due to his quickness and overall athleticism when he slides inside. Capable of overpowering offensive tackles as a edge setter against the run. Will need to continue honing his skill and growing as a player. Could stand to improve his pass rush. Born in Nigeria and did not start playing football until his freshman year of high school. Also extraordinarily young for the cycle, with a November birthday. Is the age of a 2025 prospect. Has notable upside based on his lower level of development and the room for growth relative to most other top 2024 prospects.”