A Meteoric Rise from Milton
Craig Dandridge emerged as a rising star at Cambridge High in Milton, Georgia. After recording 57 catches for 1,443 yards (an astounding 24.9-yard average) with 14 touchdowns and even returning an interception for a score, his national profile shot up. His junior-season dominance, combined with a blazing 10.84-second 100m dash and 22.19-second 200m, cemented his status as a four-star WR prospect .
Recruiters took notice—and fast. Though he didn’t collect his first offer until late junior year (from North Alabama), schools like Georgia Tech, Oklahoma, Stanford, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Georgia soon came calling
Georgia’s Recruitment: Intentional & Personal
Georgia quickly emerged as the frontrunner. Receiver coach James Coley made a lasting impression, even telling Cambridge’s coach, “I gotta get him” after witnessing Dandridge run routes . Coley visited Dandridge’s house twice in a single day—first to speak with his mother and later to personally connect with him
Dandridge recalls his official visit (May 30–June 2) as “intentional”—remarking on Georgia’s thoughtful presentation, in-depth meetings about football and academics, and a genuine focus on his growth as both a player and a person . Conversations with Coach Kirby Smart and offensive strategist Mike Bobo gave him clarity on how he’d fit into the Bulldogs’ offense—and culture Dandridge said every coach “was very intentional and transparent” and showed a devotion to player development both on and off the field
A Family-Friendly Environment
Georgia’s staff did more than sell an offense—they sold a supportive community. Dandridge highlighted how coaches engaged with his family beyond Xs and Os. His parents were “intrigued” by the coaches’ personal interest and “very fun” campus experience. This family-centered approach stood in stark contrast to recruiting visits elsewhere
Money Isn’t Everything
Despite the NIL wave, Dandridge emphasized that financial incentives didn’t guide his choice:
“I’ve told my family that it is not a determining factor for me … I want to make the decision based on where my heart is and not where the money is talking to me.”
He intends to build his foundation at Georgia, earn his stripes, and position himself for a first-round NFL draft pick
