Georgia beats out USC, Miami for five-star DT Elijah Griffin

Elijah Griffin has been sitting on his college decision for weeks.

After one more visit back to Athens alongside some of the most important people in his life, the five-star defensive lineman made it official.

Griffin, the No. 9 overall prospect in the Rivals250 for the 2025 recruiting class out of Pooler (Ga.) Savannah Christian Prep School, declared in-state for Georgia days after wrapping up his official visit over the weekend.

Griffin celebrated his birthday on campus. He soaked up the sights and sounds between the hedges one last time to confirm his decision.

“The standard in the building is set high and it’s kept high, and that’s something I wanna be a part of,” Griffin told Rivals. “I don’t want to be a part of a mediocre program; I wanna be a part of greatness. I wanna be coached by the best — not just on the field, but off the field as well.”

Griffin picked the Dawgs over USC and Miami, which got the No. 2-ranked DT in the Rivals250 on campus over the summer for official visits.

Since June, Griffin has made a string of visits to see Georgia- in action at Mercedes-Benz Stadium against Clemson in the opener and also on campus. He’s been to Athens far and away more than any other school.

After all, the Dawgs put an offer on the table for the Pooler, Ga. native in eighth grade. Georgia. They’ve been out in front in this recruitment for the bulk of his recruitment.

“Our relationship started in the eighth grade,” Griffin said of his connections to DL coach Tray Scott and head coach Kirby Smart. “They took a risk and I just kept working. I kept my head down and kept striving, working my way up to be the best I can ultimately be. I’m far off from what I can become, and I want to continue to work.”

The final box was checked over the weekend during Griffin’s official visit.

The five-star defensive lineman brought along his mother, grandmother, sister and other immediate family members. His mother, who works the night shift as a port police officer, was a key part of this visit and ultimately, his decision.

“Their relationship is amazing,” Griffin said of his mother’s relationships with the Georgia staff. “It’s like second nature. They’re natural conversations, so easy. She knows the ladies in the recruiting office and the academic offices. They’re so genuine there, they’re like a little pack.”