STAYING HOME IN STYLE: 4-Star EDGE Khamari Brooks Shocks SEC World, Commits to Georgia Over Alabama in Recruiting Power Play
Athens, GA — June 26, 2025
In a seismic shift that sent shockwaves across the SEC recruiting landscape, 4-star EDGE rusher Khamari Brooks announced his commitment to the Georgia Bulldogs, spurning powerhouse Alabama in a decision that stunned analysts and thrilled the Dawg Nation.
Brooks, a 6’5″, 245-pound explosive pass-rusher from Marietta, Georgia, revealed his decision during a nationally televised ceremony at his high school, donning a black Georgia cap before unzipping his jacket to unveil a custom Bulldogs jersey stitched with his name.
“I’m staying home,” Brooks said with a grin. “This is about legacy, loyalty, and building something special with family.”
The commitment instantly boosts Georgia’s already loaded 2025 class, vaulting it back to No. 1 in several composite national rankings. Brooks had long been considered a heavy Alabama lean, with multiple visits to Tuscaloosa and glowing praise from Nick Saban’s successor, defensive guru Marcus Golding. But in the end, it was the Bulldogs’ family-first culture, proximity to home, and the persuasive effort of head coach Kirby Smart and defensive coordinator Will Muschamp that sealed the deal.
Sources close to the recruitment say Georgia pitched Brooks not just on playing time or development — both of which were virtually guaranteed at either school — but on legacy. Brooks’ late uncle, Derrick “Tank” Brooks, was a standout linebacker for the Bulldogs in the early 2000s. His framed jersey still hangs in the family’s den, and Khamari’s decision is being seen as a continuation of a proud family tradition.
“This one is personal,” said Coach Smart in a statement. “Khamari isn’t just a freak athlete — he’s a Georgia kid through and through. He’s got the motor, the heart, and the mindset to be a leader on and off the field.”
The decision didn’t come without drama. Alabama insiders believed they had Brooks locked in following an official visit earlier this month, where he spent time with top recruits and Bama legends. Social media buzzed with cryptic tweets from Crimson Tide players, hinting at a silent commitment.
Instead, Brooks kept his circle tight and shocked the SEC by pivoting back to Georgia just days before his announcement. His commitment video, which quickly went viral, featured him walking through historic Sanford Stadium, ending with the words: “Some things are worth staying home for.”
Recruiting analysts have lauded Brooks for his length, first-step explosiveness, and relentless motor. He posted 18 sacks and 30 tackles for loss as a junior and is expected to anchor Georgia’s defensive front for years to come.
For Georgia fans, this isn’t just a win — it’s a statement.
“To beat Alabama head-to-head for a kid of this caliber — and keep him in state — says a lot about the direction of our program,” said longtime recruiting analyst Terrence McCall. “Khamari Brooks is the kind of guy you build your defense around.”
With the Dawgs reloading for another national title run, Brooks’ commitment is a thunderous reminder: the road to the top still runs through Athens.
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