Smael Mondon, Branson Robinson to miss G-Day with injuries
Georgia’s last true practice of spring drills was a costly one. DawgsHQ has learned that junior inside linebacker Smael Mondon and sophomore running back Branson Robinson both sustained injuries on Thursday, knocking them out of the team’s G-Day Spring scrimmage.
Persons with knowledge of the situation tell DawgsHQ that each of those players suffered injuries to their lower extremities (lower leg, foot, or ankle). We have not been able to confirm whether or not surgery is required for either or both players. We also don’t yet know a timeline although initial indications suggest that both will be back in time for the 2023 season.
Mondon dinged up for a second time
It’s not Mondon’s first bout with an injury. The former five-star prospect battled a sprained MCL (knee) last season and missed two full games, both at home vs. Auburn and Vanderbilt. Still, he went on to lead the team in tackles with 76 total and 49 solo. Mondon also had eight tackle for loss, one sack, five quarterback hurries, a pass breakup and an interception.
The 2022 season was Mondon’s first as a starter. He was the nation’s No. 27 overall prospect and No. 2 linebacker per the On3 Industry Ranking. Those rankings viewed him as the No. 3 player in Georgia.
Another setback for Georgia at RB
The injury is a tough break for Robinson and the Bulldogs’ immediate situation at running back. The Mississippi native had put together a strong, buzz-worthy finish to spring drills after a freshman season that saw him pile up 330 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 68 carries. He had two touchdowns against TCU in the National Championship game.
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The 5-foot-10 220-pound bruiser was Georgia’s top running back target in the 2022 class. He finished the cycle ranked No. 73 overall and as the No. 2 running back nationally according to the On3 Industry Ranking. He was the top overall player in Mississippi.
Robinson’s injury leaves Georgia with two, at most, healthy scholarship tailbacks for the spring game. Kendall Milton will miss it due to a hamstring injury. He is expected back in plenty of time for preseason camp. Andrew Paul is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered last preseason. He, too, will be cleared in time for camp.
True freshman Roderick Robinson is healthy but senior tailback Daijun Edwards has had his own injury issues this spring, battling a hamstring ailment.
Kirby Smart will be available for comment after the spring game, which kicks off at 4 p.m. ET inside Sanford Stadium. It will be televised by ESPN2.
