Georgia’s G-Day game will miss key players, including Kendall Milton and Mykel Williams, due to injury recovery and precautions.

As Georgia football prepares for its annual G-Day spring game, the injury report has begun to take shape—and it includes several high-profile names. While spring games are often seen as a tune-up or glorified scrimmage, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart approaches them with a calculated strategy, balancing the need to evaluate talent with the importance of preserving player health.

This year, a handful of key Bulldogs are either recovering from offseason procedures, nursing lingering injuries, or being held out as a precaution. Among the most notable players who won’t participate in Saturday’s game are running back Kendall Milton and defensive lineman Mykel Williams—two veterans expected to play major roles this fall.

Here’s a deep dive into the full injury report, what it means for each position group, and which players could benefit most from the increased reps this weekend.

Kendall Milton: Sitting Out to Stay Fresh

Senior running back Kendall Milton will miss the G-Day game as he continues recovering from a minor injury suffered earlier this offseason. Although the issue is not believed to be serious, Georgia’s medical staff and coaching staff are being cautious with Milton, who has had a history of soft-tissue injuries.

Milton finally stayed healthy for most of the 2024 season and posted career-best numbers, rushing for 790 yards and 11 touchdowns. Heading into his final year of eligibility, the Bulldogs are managing his workload carefully in the spring.

“Kendall’s done a lot for us,” Kirby Smart said after a recent spring practice. “We want to keep him fresh and ready for the fall. There’s no reason to push him right now.”

With Milton out, expect to see plenty of carries from sophomore Roderick Robinson II, who has slimmed down and impressed during spring workouts. Fans will also get their first extended look at 5-star freshman Nate Frazier, whose early explosiveness and vision have drawn rave reviews from coaches.

Mykel Williams: Defensive Anchor on the Mend

On the defensive side, junior lineman Mykel Williams is another key contributor who will not play in G-Day. Williams underwent a minor offseason procedure and has been held out of contact drills throughout spring camp. Georgia’s coaching staff has emphasized that his absence is strictly precautionary.

Williams is expected to be a foundational piece of the Bulldogs’ defensive front this season. In 2024, he posted 4.5 sacks and 9 tackles for loss while anchoring the edge in Georgia’s 3-4 scheme. With his combination of size, athleticism, and technique, Williams could be a first-round NFL Draft pick in 2026.

His G-Day absence opens the door for players like Jordan Hall, Christen Miller, and early enrollee Joseph Jonah-Ajonye to get more meaningful snaps.

Smael Mondon Jr.: Recovery Still Ongoing

Senior linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. is recovering from a foot surgery that he underwent in January and is not expected to participate in G-Day. Mondon led Georgia in tackles last season and has emerged as a vocal leader in the locker room.

Even though he has been seen around practice in a walking boot, the expectation is that Mondon will be fully cleared in time for fall camp.

In his place, sophomores Raylen Wilson and C.J. Allen are likely to see extended action on Saturday. Both players saw the field last season as true freshmen and are pushing for starting roles alongside veteran linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson, who himself may be limited as he recovers from a nagging injury.

Nyland Green: Injuries Continue to Hold Back Promising Corner

Cornerback Nyland Green is another player who is expected to be limited or held out entirely on G-Day. The former 4-star recruit has shown flashes of elite talent but has struggled to stay healthy throughout his time in Athens.

Green was seen participating in non-contact drills during recent practices but has not been a full participant. Georgia’s secondary is in the midst of turnover following the departures of Kamari Lassiter and Javon Bullard to the NFL, so every rep counts—especially for someone like Green who is fighting to secure a starting job.

With Green out, watch for sophomore A.J. Harris, freshman Ellis Robinson IV, and junior Daylen Everette to rotate heavily at corner.

Dillon Bell: Hamstring Strain Limits Versatile Playmaker

Wide receiver Dillon Bell has been dealing with a mild hamstring strain and is unlikely to be a full participant in Saturday’s scrimmage. Bell emerged as a Swiss Army knife last season, playing both receiver and running back due to injuries in the backfield.

The staff is expected to be cautious with Bell, given his dynamic role in Mike Bobo’s offense and the depth available at receiver this spring.

In his absence, Dominic Lovett, Anthony Evans III, and highly touted freshman Nitro Tuggle are poised for increased action. Also keep an eye on tight end Oscar Delp and 5-star freshman Elyiss Williams, who could be featured more in the passing game.

Ernest Greene III: Offensive Line Anchor Held Back

Left tackle Ernest Greene III has also been limited during spring practice and may miss G-Day. Greene is being treated for a lower-body injury that isn’t considered serious, but Georgia’s staff wants to avoid aggravating the issue.

Offensive line continuity is critical, and Greene is expected to be a key part of what could be one of the nation’s best units. His absence gives redshirt freshman Monroe Freeling and utility lineman Austin Blaske a chance to show they can protect Carson Beck’s blindside.

Additional Players Limited or Out

• Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (DL): Still working his way back from injury, may be held out.
• De’Nylon Morrissette (WR): Limited due to offseason procedure.
• Julian Humphrey (CB): Participating in non-contact drills, status uncertain for G-Day.

Kirby Smart’s Philosophy: Development First, Health Always

Kirby Smart has been vocal about his spring game philosophy. Unlike some programs that turn G-Day into a made-for-TV showcase, Smart sees the event as part of the larger developmental puzzle. The priority is keeping players healthy and giving meaningful reps to young talent.

“It’s a practice,” Smart said. “It’s practice number 15. That’s how we treat it. We want our guys to compete, but we’re not doing anything that jeopardizes their long-term health.”

That mindset explains why several starters will watch from the sidelines, helmets off, offering encouragement and mentoring the next wave of Bulldogs.

Who Benefits from These Absences?

If there’s a silver lining to Georgia’s injury list, it’s the opportunity it provides to rising stars and newcomers. Fans should be particularly excited to see:

• Nate Frazier (RB): The electric freshman gets a spotlight with Milton out.
• Joseph Jonah-Ajonye (DL): Could wreak havoc with increased reps in Williams’ place.
• Raylen Wilson and C.J. Allen (LB): Auditioning for a leadership role with Mondon out.
• Ellis Robinson IV (CB): The No. 1 cornerback in the 2025 class will be tested.
• Monroe Freeling (OL): A key swing lineman who could solidify his place in the rotation.

Final Thoughts: Georgia’s Depth on Full Display

Injuries are an unavoidable part of spring football, especially for a program loaded with veterans and NFL hopefuls. While fans may be disappointed to miss out on seeing stars like Milton, Williams, and Mondon in action, G-Day 2025 still offers a fascinating look at Georgia’s depth and future.

With another top-ranked recruiting class in the fold and returning talent all over the roster, Georgia enters the 2025 season with national title expectations once again. Saturday’s game may not feature every household name, but it will give fans a preview of what’s to come—and a look at the players who might rise to stardom next.

Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET at Sanford Stadium, with coverage on SEC Network+. Expect intensity, energy, and a lot of fresh faces looking to make a statement.