Nose guard John Atkins received a nice pick-me-up after the Bulldogs fell to Alabama in Monday's national championship.

The senior from Thomson announced on Facebook that he had received an invitation to the NFL Combine.

Set for Feb. 27-March 5 in Indianapolis, the annual event is a vital opportunity for potential NFL rookies, who will not only be tested by team officials and scouts, but have the opportunity to meet with club player and medical personnel.

Atkins (6-foot-4, 305 pounds) enjoyed a stellar season for the Bulldogs, starting 13 of the team’s 14 games, making 38 tackles as an integral part of Georgia’s defensive line.

The former standout at Thomson High certainly won’t be the only Bulldog there.

Although participants have not been officially announced, running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, linebackers Davin Bellamy and Lorenzo Carter, along with offensive tackle Isaiah Wynn, safety Dominick Sanders and wide receiver Javon Wims are among those who could also receive invites to the annual event.

Junior Roquan Smith would also be a probable attendee, assuming he beats the Jan. 15 deadline to apply for the NFL Draft.