Three Bulldogs have surgery.
Three Georgia Bulldogs Undergo Surgery: What This Means for Their Future and Georgia Football
In a college football season filled with highs and lows, the Georgia Bulldogs have been one of the most dominant teams in the country. However, as with any successful program, there are inevitably challenges, and one of the toughest situations for a team to face is injuries. In a recent development, three key players from the Georgia Bulldogs football team underwent surgery, raising questions about their recovery timeline, their impact on the team, and how these injuries might affect Georgia’s aspirations for the 2025 season.
Injuries are an unfortunate part of football, but how a team handles these setbacks often defines its championship credentials. The Bulldogs have proven to be a resilient program under head coach Kirby Smart, with an elite staff that has a track record of developing talent and adapting when the odds seem stacked against them. However, the injuries to these three players could have significant ripple effects on both the team’s current depth and its future prospects.
Let’s take a closer look at each of the three Bulldogs who recently underwent surgery, what their injuries entail, and how these developments might shape the future of Georgia football.
1. Jalen Carter – Defensive Tackle
One of the most highly anticipated prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft, Jalen Carter is a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line. A standout for the Georgia Bulldogs, Carter is widely regarded as one of the best defensive tackles in the country, and he has the ability to disrupt offensive plays with his strength, quickness, and athleticism. However, after suffering a significant injury during the 2025 season, Carter underwent surgery to repair the damage.
The Injury and Surgery
Carter’s injury came as a result of an unfortunate collision during a crucial matchup for Georgia’s defense. The injury was initially feared to be a season-ending issue, but after consultations with medical staff and specialists, it was determined that surgery would be required to address the damage. Carter’s surgery focused on the lower leg/ankle area, which is particularly concerning for a player whose game revolves around explosive bursts of speed, lateral agility, and strength in the trenches.
The surgery was deemed successful, but there is still a long road to recovery ahead for Carter. Early reports suggest that he will miss a significant portion of the spring practices and may be sidelined for part of the 2025 preseason as well. His recovery timeline will be closely monitored by both Georgia and NFL scouts, as Carter is expected to be one of the top picks in the NFL Draft if he can return to form.
Impact on Georgia Football
While Carter’s injury is a blow to the Bulldogs’ defense, the coaching staff remains optimistic that he will recover in time to contribute during the critical part of the season. With Carter sidelined for some time, Georgia’s defense will likely rely more heavily on other key players like Devonte Wyatt and Jordan Davis, who will need to step up in Carter’s absence. Additionally, the Bulldogs will have to adjust their defensive line rotation, potentially moving players around to fill the gap created by Carter’s absence.
For Georgia, Carter’s health is essential for their continued success, especially in a competitive SEC where defensive line play can make or break a season. If Carter returns fully healthy and is able to play at his usual elite level, he will give the Bulldogs a significant advantage in both stopping the run and applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks. But until then, Georgia will need to rely on its depth and adaptability to continue its strong defensive performances.
NFL Draft Implications
Carter’s recovery will be crucial for his draft prospects. While his immense talent is unquestionable, NFL teams will be paying close attention to how quickly he bounces back from surgery. Scouts will be especially interested in his ability to regain his elite athleticism and explosiveness. If Carter can return to form before the draft, he could still be a high first-round pick, but if the injury lingers or affects his play, it could have a significant impact on his stock.
2. Broderick Jones – Offensive Tackle
Another standout for the Bulldogs, Broderick Jones has long been regarded as one of the most promising offensive line prospects in the country. His size, strength, and agility make him a formidable force in both the run and pass games, and he was expected to be a key player for the Bulldogs as they moved forward in the 2025 season. However, a recent injury to Jones’ shoulder required surgery, casting uncertainty over his availability for the rest of the season.
The Injury and Surgery
Jones suffered a shoulder injury during a late-season game in 2025 that initially appeared to be a minor issue. However, as the days went on, it became clear that the injury was more serious than initially thought, and surgery was recommended to address the damage. The surgery was successful, but reports indicate that Jones will require several months to fully recover and could be limited in terms of participation during the 2025 offseason workouts.
The recovery process for a shoulder injury can be unpredictable, but early reports suggest that Jones should be ready for training camp in time for the new season. Nevertheless, his absence during spring practices and potential limitations during the early part of the season could pose challenges for the Bulldogs, especially given the importance of having a fully operational offensive line.
Impact on Georgia Football
Jones’ injury leaves a gap on Georgia’s offensive line, one that the coaching staff will need to address in the coming months. While Georgia is known for producing top-tier offensive line talent, the loss of a player like Jones, who has the potential to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft, cannot be easily ignored.
The Bulldogs will need to adjust their offensive line depth chart, possibly giving more reps to younger players or those with less experience at the tackle position. Players like Warren McClendon and Xavier Truss may have to step into more prominent roles while Jones is recovering, and the team’s offensive cohesion and rhythm could be affected as a result.
Additionally, Georgia’s running game and quarterback protection are heavily dependent on the offensive line, and any disruptions there could have a ripple effect throughout the offense. However, Georgia’s coaching staff is known for its ability to develop players, and while Jones’ injury is a setback, it is not necessarily a death knell for the team’s offensive success in 2025.
NFL Draft Implications
For Jones, the timing of the injury is particularly concerning as it affects his draft stock. While he remains a top-tier offensive tackle prospect, missing significant time in the offseason and potentially being limited during workouts could raise questions about his readiness for the NFL. Teams may be cautious in selecting him early in the draft if they feel that his recovery process could affect his ability to contribute immediately.
However, Jones’ size and talent will likely ensure that he remains a highly sought-after prospect if he recovers well. If he returns to full health and can participate in pre-draft workouts, his stock could bounce back, and he could still be one of the top offensive linemen selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.
3. Stetson Bennett – Quarterback
The Georgia Bulldogs’ offensive leader, Stetson Bennett, has been the face of the program for the past few seasons. Known for his poise, leadership, and clutch performances, Bennett has led Georgia to multiple SEC championships and national titles. However, Bennett recently suffered an injury that required surgery—an issue that has caused concern among fans and analysts alike.
The Injury and Surgery
Bennett’s injury occurred during a routine practice session where he took a hit while attempting to throw the ball. The injury was initially feared to be a serious issue with his shoulder, and after undergoing an MRI, it was determined that Bennett would need surgery to repair the damage. The surgery itself went smoothly, and Bennett is expected to make a full recovery, but the timing of the injury leaves questions about his availability for upcoming team activities.
While the surgery was successful, the recovery process for a shoulder injury can be tricky, particularly for a quarterback who relies on arm strength and throwing mechanics. Bennett is expected to be sidelined for a few months, meaning he could miss a significant portion of Georgia’s spring practices and early summer workouts.
Impact on Georgia Football
Bennett’s injury poses a unique challenge for Georgia, as the team will need to adjust without their starting quarterback for a period of time. While backup quarterbacks like Carson Beck and Brock Vandagriff are highly talented, Bennett has been the emotional leader of the offense and has a familiarity with the system that cannot be easily replicated. His absence during spring practices could delay Georgia’s offensive preparation for the 2025 season.
That said, Georgia has a deep roster, and head coach Kirby Smart has proven that his program is capable of handling adversity. With talented players around them and strong coaching, Bennett’s absence might not have as large of an impact as some might think. However, the Bulldogs’ ability to adjust quickly without their star quarterback will be key to maintaining momentum heading into the season.
NFL Draft Implications
Bennett’s injury might also affect his NFL Draft stock, though it’s unlikely to have a major long-term effect. NFL scouts will be monitoring Bennett’s recovery closely, especially with regard to his arm strength and throwing mechanics. If he can recover in time to participate in the NFL Scouting Combine and other pre-draft workouts, Bennett’s stock will remain intact. However, if his recovery process lingers, it could raise concerns about his long-term durability.
