On the heels of Mark Richt officially moving on to Miami, Georgia’s roster has seen a change as well.
In a press release, UGA announced that Faton Bauta has decided to transfer out of the football program. The decision is effective immediately, and the quarterback will not be on the roster for the Bulldogs’ bowl game.
No specific reason for the departure was given although it’s quite obvious his former coach meant a lot to him.
"“In my four years at Georgia, this university and this football program have allowed me to grow as a man and as a football player,” Bauta said in his statement. “I cannot thank Coach Richt, my coaches and my teammates enough for all they have done for me. I will always be grateful for my time in Athens, my degree from this great university and each week I spent battling with my brothers on the field.
“At this time, I feel that the best option for me is to explore a new opportunity for my final year of eligibility. But I will always be thankful for my years in red and black, for Coach Richt and the coach he has been to me.”
Because Bauta graduated this past June, he can join another FBS program and use his final season of eligibility in 2016 without having to sit out a year. If Bauta’s decision to transfer is based on finding an opportunity for playing time, he likely won’t follow Richt to The U as sophomore Brad Kaaya is firmly entrenched as the Hurricanes’ starter.
Bauta started one game during his four seasons in Athens, the Florida game this season in which he threw four interceptions in a loss. He was used primarily as the holder on field goal attempts this season, and rarely played prior to 2015.
For his career, Bauta finished 19-for-38 for 202 yards passing; 33 of those attempts came against the Gators. He also added 13 carries for 50 yards and two touchdowns.
The West Palm Beach, Fla., native was a three-star member of UGA’s 2012 recruiting class.