Despite clinching the SEC Championship and securing a spot in the 2024 College Football Playoff, the Georgia Bulldogs’ season didn’t entirely go as planned. They now face some unexpected hurdles, as offensive lineman Monroe Freeling suffered a major injury.
Monroe Freeling Leaves Georgia’s Spring Football Plans in Question
Freeling, who started at left tackle for the final five games of the season, is expected to miss or be limited in spring football due to a recent shoulder surgery.
This injury is a significant concern for the Bulldogs, especially with the team looking to integrate a new starting quarterback. Freeling’s recovery, however, is expected to be complete in time for the 2025 season.
Georgia has not provided an official statement regarding his surgery. Meanwhile, Antoine Rivens, who previously coached Freeling at Oceanside Collegiate Academy in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, confirmed that the player had been planning on undergoing the procedure. Rivens shared:
“I know he was planning on having that surgery.”
While the exact timing of the surgery has not been confirmed, Rivens reassured that Freeling is expected to be fully recovered by the start of fall camp. The Bulldogs are set to introduce a new starting quarterback. They also have one of their key offensive linemen sidelined during the spring months.
Freeling’s Contribution in 2024 and What Lies Ahead
Freeling played a major role for Georgia in the 2024 season, starting as left tackle for the final five games of the year. He took over for Earnest Greene III, who had been dealing with shoulder problems.
According to Pro Football Focus, Freeling allowed three sacks and 21 quarterback pressures over 609 snaps, which highlights the room for improvement. However, his potential to be a key player for Georgia in the future was evident.
With Freeling sidelined, Georgia will likely lean on Greene to fill in at left tackle for spring practices.
Greene had been the starter for the first nine games of the 2024 season before being sidelined with an upper-body injury. Despite returning to full health, Greene couldn’t reclaim his starting spot.
However, he remains a veteran option for the Bulldogs as they look to adjust their offensive line without Freeling in the mix. Greene’s experience in the position could prove vital as Georgia continues to prepare for the 2025 season.
As Georgia prepares to make a transition at QB, the pressure on Gunner Stockton is mounting. The sophomore quarterback will take over the starting role following Carson Beck’s transfer to the Miami Hurricanes.
KEEP READING: Kirby Smart Gives Sneak Peek Into Georgia’s QB Room After Carson Beck’s Injury
With the departure of important offensive line starters like Dylan Fairchild, Jared Wilson, Tate Ratledge, and Xavier Truss, Georgia will be tasked with rebuilding its line.
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