Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart provided injury updates following Georgia’s big road win over the Texas Longhorns. Georgia is currently in its bye week. The Bulldogs are looking to heal up ahead of the Nov. 2 game against the Florida Gators.
“We’re hoping to get (linebacker) Smael (Mondon) back,” said Smart. “Can’t wait to get him back. Hopefully it’ll be soon. He’s out there with us right now. And don’t know when it’ll be.”
Mondon has been out with a foot injury, but it does not sound like he will miss an extended period of time. However, he was ruled out early in the week against Texas, so it would be a bit of a surprise if he can go against Florida.
Georgia offensive guard Tate Ratledge suited up for the Texas game, but he was only available in an emergency capacity. Ratledge has been out since the Kentucky game with an ankle injury.
“I’ve seen a lot of hard work. He (Tate Ratledge) could be one of the toughest players I’ve ever been around,” said Smart. “He had a very significant tightrope injury, to the point it was more significant than Brock’s (Bowers), and he is fighting his way back. He wasn’t ready to play, but he was an emergency guy that could have gone in the game if we needed him to. We’re hopeful he keeps getting better.”
The Florida game has always represented a realistic recovery timeline for Ratledge, but every injury is different and unique. Ratledge is a name to watch when Georgia releases its SEC injury report on Wednesday, Oct. 30 before the Florida game.
Georgia running backs Branson Robinson (knee) and Roderick Robinson (toe) both remain out. Defensive lineman Joseph Jonah-Ajonye missed the Texas game with an unknown injury.
Georgia is expected to be without defensive backs Dan Jackson and Joenel Aguero for the first half of the Florida game. Both Jackson and Aguero were ejected in the second half against Texas due to targeting and as a result face suspensions for the first half against Florida.
