Even prior to him tearing his ACL, most, if not all of those connected to the Georgia football program assumed the 2014 season would be Todd Gurley‘s last in Athens. After the ACL tear? You could’ve written it in ink.
While it wasn’t official then, it is now as head coach Mark Richt busted out the permanent marker in confirming that the talented running back is leaving the Bulldogs after three seasons for the NFL. Richt made the announcement as prep work for the Belk Bowl matchup with Louisville continues in Charlotte.
Richt stated that Gurley is with the team as he continues rehab, which the coach said is going well.
“He’s rehabbing well,” Richt said. “Ron thinks it’s going beautifully. His spirits are great. I wouldn’t be shocked to see him doing a lot of things for the scouts before the draft. I think he’ll be a very high draft pick.”
Gurley was arguably the Heisman front-runner when he was suspended for what turned out to be four games in mid-October for admitting to accepting money in exchange for his autographs. His first game back from that suspension, however, Gurley sustained the torn ACL.
In his three seasons at UGA, Gurley rushed for 3,285 yards and 36 touchdowns. Prior to his injury, he was viewed as a lock to be a first-round pick; what his draft stock will be post-injury remains to be seen.