The Georgia Bulldogs have lost four of their previous five starting offensive lineman from the 2019 season: LT Andrew Thomas (NFL), LG Solomon Kindley, RG Cade Mays (transfer to Tennessee), and RT Isaiah Wilson (NFL). The Dawgs need all the help they can get at offensive line with the line only returning starting center Trey Hill.
Fortunately, Georgia just got some good news. Offensive lineman Justin Shaffer has been cleared to return following a scary neck injury. Shaffer sprained his neck against South Carolina and missed UGA’s final eight games of the season. Now, he’s been cleared to return:
Shaffer started last season against South Carolina and at Tennessee. His experience will be valuable for the offensive line as he appeared in each of Georgia’s first six games before suffering his injury.
Georgia’s 2020 offensive line is still a work in progress. The Dawgs have some talented recruits waiting in the wings and some elite recruits committed to Georgia, but waiting until signing day to make their decision official. Georgia’s biggest task will be replacing LT Andrew Thomas, who was the rock of UGA’s offensive line. Thomas projects to be a top ten pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Shaffer played primarily left guard when he saw action last season. His return also helps boost UGA’s depth along the offensive front. His experience will be especially important when Georgia plays at Alabama in September.
