Following a long recruitment that had a few twists and turns, 5-star linebacker Smael Mondon has finally announced his commitment — he’s a Dawg.

Mondon announced his decision during a Wednesday morning commitment ceremony at Paulding County High School. Mondon picked Georgia over Auburn, Florida, LSU and Tennessee.

It’s rare to see an elite defender leave the Peach State when Kirby Smart puts on the full-court press for a player and that continues to hold true as the newest member of Georgia’s 2021 recruiting class has long been a target of the Dawgs.

The 6-foot-3, 220-pound Paulding County standout is rated as the No. 27 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 2 outside linebacker and the No. 3 overall prospect from Georgia in the 2021 recruiting cycle by 247Sports Composite Rankings.

He plans to enroll early in the school he commits to on Wednesday morning. Mondon had been selected to play in the All-American Bowl but the high school all-star showcase game was canceled this year due to COVID.

In addition to being a star on the football field for Paulding County High School, Mondon also runs track.

To get an idea of what Mondon potentially brings to the defense in Athens, check out his junior season highlight reel below.