Swedish four-star defensive lineman Valdin Sone, born in Malmö to Cameroonian parents, announced his commitment to the University of Georgia Bulldogs, citing development opportunities and the program’s championship pedigree as decisive factors.
A transatlantic recruitment journey
The 6-foot-3.5, 320-pound prospect, ranked No. 130 nationally by Rivals, had already garnered over a dozen offers before enrolling at Blue Ridge School, a boarding academy in St. George, Virginia, in 2024. Placed there by Brandon Collier of PPI Recruits, Sone utilized the school’s learning center to prepare academically while showcasing his skills to college recruiters. He took official visits to Nebraska, Florida, and Auburn before finalizing his decision after a pivotal June 20 official visit to Athens.
Blue Ridge’s immediate impact
Head coach Clint Alexander told the Athens Banner-Herald: “He was very well-coached when he showed up. He played on high-level teams in Europe and wasn’t a project. He was a huge asset.” Sone helped Blue Ridge go undefeated and claim a VISAA Division II state title in 2024 while captaining Sweden’s IFAF European Junior Football Championships victory over Denmark (2 sacks, 1 FR).
Development-focused coaches seal the deal
Defensive line coach Tray Scott’s NFL development track record and Kirby Smart’s defensive philosophy resonated deeply. “Coach Scott is all about getting players to the league,” Sone said. Smart’s genuine approach and trust in his staff further solidified the choice.
Multisport roots fuel football rise
Growing up in Sweden, Sone trained in soccer, taekwondo, and ju-jitsu before focusing on football at age 11 with the Limhamn Griffins. His athletic versatility translated to rapid success, earning ‘Alpha Dog’ honors at the 2023 Road2D1 Combine in Germany.
Georgia’s culture aligns with Sone’s ethos
“Georgia is not for everyone because of the work required, but that’s what a dawg does,” Sone said. The Bulldogs’ SEC prominence and defensive dominance—key to producing 15 NFL Draft picks since 2022—cemented his choice.
What’s next
Sone, who plans to enroll in Athens in January 2026, strengthens Georgia’s 2026 class, which now features 18 pledges. His journey from Malmö to the SEC underscores the Bulldogs’ expanding global reach under Smart.