The Georgia Bulldogs' fall camp is off to a rocky start, with several key players sidelined due to injuries and suspensions.
The team is preparing for its season opener on September 5 against Tennessee State, but several key players are expected to miss extended time, including Auburn transfer defensive lineman Amaris Williams, who suffered a torn ACL in the spring. Williams is not the only Georgia player recovering from an ACL injury, as freshman cornerback Justice Fitzpatrick also suffered an ACL injury in December.
Georgia running back transfer Dante Dowdell is out for the foreseeable future after an offseason ATV accident that left him hospitalized. "Dante (Dowdell)'s doing better," head coach Kirby Smart said. "He is not with us. We don't have a timeline for him, and that's going to happen. The most important thing for Dante is himself, and that he can do functions and do daily, in and out things, not really worried about football right now."
In addition to Dowdell, several other players are dealing with injuries. Defensive back Kyron Jones is limited due to a foot injury, while offensive lineman Drew Bobo is also limited after suffering a Lisfranc injury and a broken bone in his foot. Defensive lineman Gabe Harris is also limited, but is expected to be back to full strength soon.
Georgia is also dealing with a few suspensions, although the team has not announced any details. As usual, the team is being cautious with players who were arrested this offseason, and it's unlikely that any suspensions will be announced publicly.
The team's injuries and suspensions may not be a major concern for the season opener against Tennessee State, but they could become more of an issue as the season progresses. The Bulldogs' first Power Four opponent is in Week 3 against Arkansas, so Georgia may need to be more cautious with players who are nursing injuries in the first few weeks of the season.
The team will continue to monitor the progress of its injured players and make adjustments as needed. With several key players sidelined, the Bulldogs will need to rely on their depth and bench strength to get through the season.
Source: Yahoo Sports