Chase Linton, a highly regarded 4-star EDGE commit for the Georgia Bulldogs, has an unforgettable story tied to his first experience with football—one that is both amusing and emblematic of his competitive spirit. Currently ranked as the No. 11 EDGE prospect and the No. 132 overall for the class of 2025 by 247Sports Composite, Linton’s journey begins with an unexpected encounter that has him expressing a strong aversion to yellow jackets.
At just seven or eight years old, Linton stepped onto the field for his very first football game, facing a team aptly named the Yellow Jackets. Prior to the game, his coach introduced a warm-up routine that he playfully referred to as “karaoke.” Unfortunately, this playful pregame moment would take a painful turn when Linton found himself being stung multiple times on his ankle by actual yellow jackets.
Despite the stings causing significant pain, Linton was determined not to leave the field. “I was amped up,” he recalled, fueled by excitement and perhaps a little pre-game sugar. Limping but unwilling to yield, he played through the discomfort, surprising his mother, Keeva, who watched with concerns as he persevered in the face of pain. “He didn’t complain not one time during that game,” she marveled.
Linton’s tenacity was clear, as he completed the game despite the stings, showing an early sign of the fierce determination that would characterize his approach to football. His playful story had those around him chuckling, likening it to a whimsical children’s book narrative. In retrospect, Keeva acknowledges the humor in the situation, recognizing how it forges a unique bond between her son and the sport—further cemented when Linton later revealed his true commitment to the Georgia Bulldogs during a ceremony where he playfully donned a Georgia Tech hat before dramatically displaying his allegiance in red and black.
As he prepares for his future with the Bulldogs, it’s clear that Linton’s dislike for yellow jackets is more than just a quirky anecdote. It serves as a testament to his resilience and dedication, qualities that will undoubtedly serve him well on the field. With the 2025 class on the horizon, there’s a sense of excitement among fans about what Linton will achieve and how he will channel his experiences into becoming a formidable player for Georgia.
Overall, Chase Linton’s journey highlights the unexpected twists of childhood that shape athletes into competitive spirits and underscores the kind of passion that football ignites in young players. His story is not just about overcoming challenges but also embracing the spirit of the game, suggesting a bright future within the Bulldogs’ program.