Georgia strengthened their defense today, as four-star outside linebacker Robert Beal of IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) announced his commitment to the Bulldogs.

Beal, the nation's No. 70 player overall, is a former resident of Norcross, Georgia and gained much notoriety playing for the Norcross High Blue Devils before his late spring transfer to IMG.

A one time Notre Dame commit, Beal, ranked as the fifth best weakside defensive end in the Rivals100, became an important focus for Kirby Smart and staff upon their arrival to Athens, and Smart had recruited him during his time at Alabama.

"They’re trying to win national championships, and I really like it,” Beal said of Georgia in a recent interview.

The Bulldogs made a compelling pitch, as well.

“We need you. We don’t want you - we need you,” Beal said of the message from the team.

With Beal's pledge, the Bulldogs now have thirteen commitments, including eight players ranked at the four-star level.

He currently measures in at 6-foot-3, 217 pounds.

More to come.