Kirby Smart sends heartfelt birthday message to late Georgia player Devin Willock

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart wished happy birthday to the late Devin Willock. Willock, a former Georgia Bulldogs lineman was killed tragically in a vehicle crash in January.

Willock was killed along with Georgia recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy. Willock, a New Jersey native, had just wrapped up his third season at Georgia, where he appeared in all 15 games and started two of them. 

Smart’s message can be seen below.

Happy Birthday, Dev. We are thinking of you today, and reflecting on the impact you had on all of us, as a friend and teammate. We love and miss you. pic.twitter.com/sNCzfaNbmO

— Coach Kirby Smart (@KirbySmartUGA) February 28, 2023

“Happy Birthday, Dev,” Smart wrote. “We are thinking of you today, and reflecting on the impact you had on all of us, as a friend and teammate. We love and miss you.”

Upon the initial tragedy, Georgia released a statement on Willock and LeCroy.

“The entire Georgia family is devastated by the tragic loss of football student-athlete Devin Willock and football staff member Chandler LeCroy. Two other members of the football program were injured in the accident. They are both in stable condition, and we will continue to monitor their status with medical personnel.

“Devin and Chandler were two special people who meant so much to the University of Georgia, our football program and our athletic department.  We ask that everyone keep their families in your prayers during this very difficult time.

“The UGA Athletic Association will work with our medical team as well as our mental health and performance personnel to make sure we are providing the best support possible for our staff and student-athletes who are processing this grief. We can provide no further comment at this time but ask that everyone continue to keep those involved in your prayers.”