Georgia freshman Jamaal Jarrett issues apology for racially insensitive remarks

Georgia freshman defensive tackle Jamaal Jarrett has apologized after making “racially insensitive remarks” during last month’s NFL Draft.

The offensive remarks were made by Jarrett during a now-viral Instagram Live video of the Atlanta Falcons’ first-round selection in which Jarrett asked for the Falcons to draft former Georgia star Jalen Carter. While waiting, Jarrett can be heard yelling, “Come on you Asian,” in reference to the fan making the announcement on television before making a racially-offensive sound. [WARNING: The video features offensive and inappropriate comments.]

Jarrett posted a statement Wednesday night on Twitter apologizing for his comments. It reads in part:

“Recently I made racially insensitive remarks on my social media platform. I feel ashamed by my actions that have caused tremendous hurt and pain, especially to those in the AAPI community, and I truly do apologize. I did not mean any hate or harm towards anyone,” the statement said.

“Over the past several days I have learned more about the AAPI community and the increased hate crimes that have been directed towards members of the community. I have come to understand more clearly where I messed up and why this behavior was wrong. The type of language I used is harmful, and there is no place for it anywhere.”

Jarrett went on to say that he wants to grow from the mistake and will make better choices moving forward.

“As we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, I plan to continue learning and talking with students and others on our campus and in Athens to learn how I can support the AAPI community. I promise I will learn from this mistake and do better.”

Jarrett signed with Georgia in December and was on campus this spring for spring practices.

The North Carolina native was ranked as a four-star recruit and the No. 182 overall player in the country for the class of 2023, according to the On3 Industry rankings.

As a senior at Grimsley High, Jarrett recorded 63 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, an interception and a sack.

He joined a Georgia program that is coming off of back-to-back national titles.

The Bulldogs had not won a national title since 1980, before beating Alabama 33-18 to earn the 2021 national championship.

In January, Georgia blasted TCU 65-7 to capture its second straight crown.

Jarrett will try to help Georgia become the first team since Minnesota in the 1930s to win three straight national titles. The Bulldogs open the season on Sept. 2.