by Shawn Nowlin
Like many Roanoke Valley youth, Chris Cole grew up dreaming of one day making it as a professional athlete. Unlike most people for a variety of reasons, the former Salem High School standout has a realistic shot of accomplishing that goal.
Recently, the Georgia Bulldogs college football star returned home to volunteer at the Roanoke Sheriff’s Office for a giveaway event. Rather than spending his NIL money on material things, Cole instead chose to purchase gifts for those in need.
Recognizing the impact of his platform, Cole is dedicated to serving as a role model for the next generation.
“For me, giving back definitely means a lot. This community meant a lot to me growing up,” he wrote on social media. “Being blessed and able to give back to them while I have a couple of days off is a blessing for me, to put smiles on kids’ faces.”
Between his freshman and junior year at Salem High, Cole grew from 5-foot-8 to 6-foot-3. That growth spurt, combined with his tireless work ethic in the weight room, led Cole to change his position from safety to linebacker.
By the time his senior year came around, Cole was easily one of the top football prospects in Virginia.
Before committing to play at the University of Georgia for Kirby Smart, Cole held offers from Miami, Penn State and Tennessee.
As a true freshman, Cole registered 16 tackles and two fumble recoveries while being named to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) All-Freshman Team. Suffice to say, he is more than satisfied with his decision.
Said Smart on his sophomore star, “He takes on three different, very distinct roles. We have to find ways to keep utilizing Chris’ strengths. He’s a good playmaker, and I’m proud of the way he’s practicing and playing.”
Despite the commands that come with being an NCAA student athlete, Cole puts just as much hard work into his studies as he does his football playbook. A proud recipient of the William P. Bruckner Scholarship, Cole is on track to earn a degree in biology.
There isn’t a college coach in America who wouldn’t gladly welcome a talent like Cole in their program.
Former UGA greats Odell Thurman, Boss Bailey and Nakobe Dean have all praised Cole for the young man he is.
George Lynch (basketball), K.J. Hippensteel (tennis) and Larry LeGrande (baseball) are some of the Roanoke natives who made it to the highest levels of professional sports. If Cole has the junior campaign that many believe he is capable of, he has a real shot at being a first-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Regardless of where life takes Cole, his Roanoke supporters will be rooting for him every step of the way.
