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Kirby Smart offers injury update on Georgia WR Arian Smith

On3 imageby:Jake Rowe•09/12/22•

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Steven Limentani | ISI Photos | Getty Images

One of Georgia’s most explosive weapons is on the road to recovery according to Kirby Smart. Junior wideout Arian Smith, who sustained an ankle injury that required surgery during preseason camp, has taken the next step in his journey back to the football field. Smart just isn’t sure when he might be able return.

“Arian’s coming back,” Smart said. He’s been able to do some weight-bearing running. He’s been hitting some good speeds. Hopefully he’ll be able to get back… we don’t know when he’s going to be back. It’s doubtful he’s back this week but he is back running. He’s not 100 percent. Excited for what he’s been able to do. He’s not cutting or breaking. He’s on the Alter-G. He’s getting better and you can see it in his eyes. He’s getting healthier just got no idea when he’s going to be back”

Arian Smith, a former four-star prospect, has dealt with a myriad of injuries in his Georgia career. He missed preseason camp of his freshman season with a knee injury that required surgery. He didn’t debut until late in the 2020 season, catching two passes for 86 yards and a touchdown.

The speedy receiver began the 2021 season healthy but sustained a deep shin contusion in week two. That injury kept him out for several weeks. He was able to make his way back from that one but suffered a broken bone in his leg. That caused him to miss the remainder of the season. Smith’s 2021 season ended with him catching three passes for 102 yards and two scores.

With three out of his five career grabs going for touchdowns and an average yards per reception of 37.6, it’s clear that Smith is potential game changer when healthy. Arian Smith held a lofty ranking as a prospect due in large part to his blazing speed. Arian Smith has also participated on Georgia’s track team, posting a 100-meter time of 10.1 seconds to qualify for NCAA nationals.

The sooner the Bulldogs can get Arian Smith back, the better. They’re currently dealing with an injury to sophomore wideout AD Mitchell. He suffered an ankle injury on the team’s first play from scrimmage in a 33-0 win over Samford. Mitchell didn’t return to the game or the sideline.

Smart told reporters after the game that Mitchell could have probably returned but the staff elected to hold him out. Smart’s tone changed on Monday when he said that Mitchell would definitely be held out for Monday’s practice and that the medical staff was optimistic about his status for the SEC opener at South Carolina.

The Bulldogs will take on the Gamecocks at 12 p.m. ET on Saturday. The game will be televised by ESPN with Sean McDonough, Todd Blackledge, and Molly McGrath on the call.

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