Due to injuries, Georgia football will be missing a number of players this spring.
As the Georgia Bulldogs commence their spring football practice on March 11, 2025, they face a series of challenges due to injuries affecting several key players. Head Coach Kirby Smart has provided updates on these injuries, detailing the status of each player and the anticipated impact on the team’s preparations for the upcoming season.
Players Out for Spring Practice:
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Ryan Montgomery (Quarterback): The freshman quarterback is sidelined after an ACL injury that cut his senior high school season short. He is expected to be cleared in time for preseason camp.
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Branson Robinson (Running Back): The redshirt junior underwent surgery to repair a torn PCL. Robinson had previously dealt with knee injuries, including a torn patellar tendon and a sprained MCL.
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Roderick Robinson (Running Back): The redshirt sophomore is recovering from surgery for a broken ankle sustained after the SEC Championship game.
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Monroe Freeling (Offensive Tackle): The starting left tackle underwent labrum-repair surgery in January and will be limited this spring. His recovery is reportedly progressing well.
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Colton Heinrich (Tight End): The reserve tight end also had a labrum repair in January and will miss spring practice.
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Gabe Harris (Outside Linebacker): Expected to step into a major role in his third season, Harris underwent labrum-repair surgery and will be absent this spring.
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Christen Miller (Defensive Lineman): Miller is out for the spring following shoulder surgery.
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Jaylan Morgan (Defensive Back): The freshman defensive back is recovering from shoulder surgery and will miss spring practice.
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Brett Thorson (Punter): Thorson suffered ACL and MCL injuries during the SEC Championship game and will be sidelined for the spring.
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Players Limited During Spring Practice:
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Daylen Everette (Cornerback): The senior and third-year starter will be limited this spring as he recovers from a sports hernia surgery.
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Joseph Jonah-Ajonye (Defensive Lineman): The defensive end will have limited participation this spring while recovering from foot surgery.
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Impact on Team Dynamics:
The absence and limited participation of these players present both challenges and opportunities for the Bulldogs:
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Running Backs: With both Branson and Roderick Robinson out, there will be increased opportunities for other running backs, such as Chauncey Bowens and Bo Walker, to take on more significant roles during spring practice.
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Defensive Line: The defensive line faces depth challenges with the absence of Miller and the limited participation of Jonah-Ajonye. This situation opens the door for players like Jordan Hall, Xzavier McLeod, Jordan Thomas, Nasir Johnson, and incoming freshman Elijah Griffin to step up and gain valuable practice reps.
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Offensive Line: Freeling’s limited availability may lead to adjustments in the offensive line during spring drills, providing opportunities for other linemen to showcase their abilities.
Coaching Perspective:
Coach Kirby Smart has acknowledged the injury situation, noting that the number of players out this spring is comparable to previous years. He emphasized the importance of utilizing this period to develop depth and provide younger players with essential practice experience.
As the Bulldogs navigate these injuries, the coaching staff will focus on maintaining competitive practices and ensuring that all players, regardless of their current health status, remain engaged in the team’s preparation for the upcoming season.