2026 TE Lincoln Keyes commits to Georgia over Michigan and Ohio State: 'It just felt right'

Saline (Mich.) tight end Lincoln Keyes traveled down to Athens Saturday with high interest in the Bulldogs, and after seeing Georgia take down Tennessee under the lights, he committed to Kirby Smart, Todd Hartley and company.

“It came down to Michigan and Georgia,” Keyes told On3. “I loved Alabama and Ohio State too, but it felt right. Georgia is the perfect fit.”

This started back on June 20 when Keyes camped in Athens. He blew the staff away. He became a top target that day and the feelings are mutual.

“I felt it was home for a long time. You have that gut feeling as a recruit and I have had it in my gut for a while. I talked with parents, it was an amazing night with the fans, how Oscar Delp played and it was just the right time.

“Coach Todd Hartley makes me feel at home and Georgia fits every category that I care about. The development, the relationship with the coaches, how tight ends are used and how versatile they are at Georgia – Georgia is the spot to be for sure.”

The staff at Georgia played a role in Keyes commitment to Georgia

The 6-foot-6, 220-pound playmaker gave Hartley the news Sunday morning. Keyes’ recruitment is over and he is excited to be a Bulldog.

“Coach Hartley is one of the most amazing people. He is a great husband, great coach and overall, he cares not only about my performance, but my develop, my mental health and he is an amazing person.

“My parents love him and coach Kirby Smart. We are both so competitive and that is what I love about him. We hate to lose. He is a great guy and we will fit well together.

“I had some other great schools on my list, but Georgia beat them by a good amount. Last night was insane. I can’t put it into words. Tennessee couldn’t handle Georgia in the second half. Georgia beat them down. You could feel the energy and the tenacity of the whole team. It is where I want to be.”