Malik Herring to Georgia: Bulldogs Land 4-Star DE Prospect

The Georgia Bulldogs added a potential difference-maker Thursday, when defensive end Malik Herring joined their 2017 recruiting class.

Herring revealed his decision in a Christmas-themed video, per DawgNation's Jeff Sentell. Wide receiver Jeremiah Holloman committed to the Bulldogs in the video as well.

The 6'4", 265-pound lineman is a 4-star prospect, per Scout, and the No. 217 overall player, No. 18 defensive end and No. 3 defensive end from Georgia in the 2017 class.

Herring generated plenty of interest from some of the best SEC and ACC schools in the country. His top-eight list, which he released on Twitter in December 2015, included Georgia, Tennessee, Clemson, Florida State, Alabama, Florida, Ole Miss and LSU.

Given his comments, the Bulldogs seemed to make an impact during the recruiting process even after former head coach Mark Richt took the Miami Hurricanes job, per Kipp Adams of 247Sports:

"

I love the new Georgia staff. When I visited, I spoke to Coach Mel Tucker and Coach Kevin Sherrer. That boosted them up for me because I already have a great relationship with Coach Kirby Smart and Coach Tracy Rocker.

Last time I went up with myself, but then I went back with my mom so she could get a good look at the coaching staff and get some feedback from her. That is really important - she has a big impact on my recruitment.

"

It is no wonder so many blue-chip programs wanted Herring. The defensive end doesn't explode past offensive tackles with a lightning-quick first step, but his overall strength and ability to plug holes along the defensive line help him stifle opposing rushing attacks.

Scout's evaluation of Herring indicated he could play defensive end or tackle during his collegiate tenure. That versatility should prove to be crucial, especially since he is strong at the point of attack and "can get penetration into the backfield."

The strength is important, but so is the talent to play multiple positions. That will give Herring an edge as he battles for playing time in his freshman campaign and looks to bolster his new team's defense.

He will likely improve his athleticism with experience at an elite college program as well, which will make him more dangerous as his collegiate career progresses.