Damian Swann Commits to Georgia Over Alabama: What It Means for Georgia Football

Damian Swann committed to Georgia this afternoon prior to kickoff at the 2011 U.S. Army All-American Bowl. The 6'0", 175-pound athlete chose to play for the Bulldogs over Alabama and USC.

Swann, the 12th-ranked athlete in the class of 2011, according to ESPNU and Scout's Inc., told NBC's broadcast team, “My heart is at Georgia. I'm ready to help bring the program back.”

Swann, of course, provides a high level of speed, athleticism and versatility to the Georgia defense. He is a superior cornerback with the speed to match many No. 1 receivers.

Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia seemed the perfect fit for Swann, who also considered Florida, Ohio State and Tennessee. Swann is just one of a handful of the top undeclared recruits choosing between Alabama and Georgia, among others.

While Swann's contributions on the field for the Bulldogs will have to wait until next fall, his choice prompts smiles and hope for Georgia fans after the program went nearly five months without a commitment. Swann's decision, of course, comes after Sanford Seay offered his commitment Thursday.

Perhaps an immediate impact that Swann may be able to make is in the recruitment of fellow Georgia high school superstar and the third-ranked player in the nation, Ray Drew. The No. 2 defensive end told the Atlanta Journal Constitution that Swann was already on the phone with him about joining him on what could be the Bulldogs' 2011 “Dream Team” recruiting class.

The addition of Swann certainly improves Georgia's recruiting class, which is ranked eighth, according to ESPN.com. In Swann, the Bulldogs beefed up their secondary and added one of the nation's best athletes. Depending on the need at wide receiver, Swann has shown much promise at that position as well.

Above all else in the coming days and weeks leading up to national signing day, though, Swann's commitment could help turn the tables for some of the players considering Georgia.