In 2024, will Georgia have a feature again?
When the phrase “Georgia Football” is mentioned, the immediate association is with the running back position, a legacy upheld by notable players such as Herschel Walker, Nick Chubb, and Sony Michel, consistently producing NFL talent. Currently, the Bulldogs boast five active running backs in the NFL – Nick Chubb, James Cook, DeAndre Swift, Kenny McIntosh, and Zamir White. Looking ahead, Daijun Edwards and Kendall Milton are expected to join the NFL Draft next year, adding to the program’s impressive running back lineage.
However, as the team enters spring practice, uncertainties overshadow the running back position. Roderick Robinson, the leading returning rusher for Georgia, had a modest 24 carries last season, leaving room for a breakout performer in the upcoming season. One potential standout is Trevor Etienne, a transfer from Florida and the younger brother of ACC’s all-time leading rusher, Travis Etienne. Trevor brings a dual threat as a runner and receiver, crucially possessing two years of SEC game experience. Despite his impressive 6.1 yards per touch average in 24 games, there is a query about his limited touches at Florida, averaging only 11.6 per game. The key for Etienne lies in maintaining durability and excelling in pass protection within Mike Bobo’s pro-style system, potentially leading to a standout season akin to Kenny McIntosh’s final year in 2022.
Yet, the running back competition at Georgia is fierce, featuring talents like Branson Robinson, Roderick Robinson, and Andrew Paul. Roderick Robinson, a robust 240-pound back, provides a powerful presence in short-yardage situations. Andrew Paul, despite a knee injury in his freshman year, received acclaim and managed some late-game touches in 2023. Branson Robinson, recovering from a knee injury before the last season, showcased brilliance in his sensational freshman year in 2022 and is expected to return in the fall, though the extent of his involvement remains uncertain. The depth of talent in the running back room ensures a competitive camp, with Etienne holding the initial advantage as a seasoned player, but the distribution of touches will depend on individual performances and the capabilities of the talented backs competing for playing time.
