Georgia football player card: DB Derion Kendrick

Derion Kendrick, Defensive Back (No. 11):

Class: Senior

Height: 6-0

Weight: 190 pounds

Hometown: Rock Hill, South Carolina

High School: South Pointe High School

Georgia Bulldogs defensive back Derion Kendrick is projected to start as the No. 1 cornerback in Dan Lanning’s defensive scheme this season. Kendrick transferred to Georgia from Clemson this offseason. He will face his former team to open the season.

Kendrick is a former five-star recruit who began his college football career at wide receiver. Kendrick transitioned to cornerback as a sophomore.

Nov. 16, 2019; Clemson, South Carolina; Clemson Tigers Derion Kendrick (1) returns the ball during the first half of the game against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports

Georgia started Ameer Speed and Jalen Kimber in the spring game, but the secondary will look much different to open the season.

Kirby Smart brought in more competition at defensive back, including Alabama transfer Brandon Turnage and West Virgnia transfer Tykee Smith. Former five-star recruit Kelee Ringo will compete for playing time.

Kendrick’s big-game experience will be critical for the secondary. He is considered a top cornerback prospect for the 2022 NFL draft, but there are concerns about his character.

Kendrick proved himself as a top cornerback during his time at Clemson. He finished the 2020 season as an All-ACC performer. The former South Pointe High School star deflected six passes, recorded a sack and intercepted one pass last season for the Tigers.

Kendrick has 23 career starts at cornerback. He has played in five career College Football Playoff games.