Jordan van den Berg Anchors Tech's D -Line in 2025
The biggest question regarding Georgia Tech football entering the 2025 season is the defense. Within the defense, arguably the biggest question is on the defensive line.
Tech returns Jordan van den Berg though, and if his take on the upcoming season is any indication, Tech's line will be just fine.
Van den Berg fielded questionswith aplomb during a post -practice press conference last week.
He spoke on several topics , but perhaps most telling was his response to a question regarding his personal goals for the season ahead.
" I just want to do my job so my brother can do his job", replied the 6'3" 300 lb redshirt senior.
That kind of team approach will go a long way toward helping Tech's defense improve on a good , but not great, 2024.
Last year the Yellow Jackets had difficulty mounting consistent pressure, and specifically in registering sacks. Improving on that aspect is a team goal for 2025.
Van den Berg had a strong finish to his 2024 season and he is looking forward to his final year. He believes Tech will do best with a five man group to rotate through at defensive tackle, and he's confident that they have a good group to do just that, including Akele Stone who is back on the Flats via the transfer portal.
Otherwise, van den Berg spoke to the possibility of altitude issues at Boulder for game one. He dismissed any concerns with a laugh, reminding all present that he hails from Johannesburg, South Africa, which has an altitude of 5700 feet.
He looks to build on his strong 2024 season, which included five tackles for loss and a key game- clinching fumble recovery against Miami to preserve Tech's 28- 23 upset win. Those heroics helped earn him 2nd team all- ACC honors.
Van den Berg relocated to Atlanta with his family at age 10, and he graduated from Providence Christian before beginning his college careeer. He played at Penn State for three years before arriving at Tech for 2024.
His play will be a vital determinant in Tech's bid to improve D- line pressures throughout the 2025.
Patrick Conarro RamblinSports.com