Georgia Coach Kirby Smart Gives Updates on Brock Bowers’ Recovery

Georgia coach Kirby Smart provided an update on tight end Brock Bowers’ recovery after the All-American underwent surgery on his left ankle. While Smart did not offer a specific timeline for Bowers’ return, he emphasized the team’s focus on getting him fully healthy.

During a press conference, Smart stated that his main concern is getting Bowers back to optimum health and not speculating on his return date. Bowers had undergone TightRope surgery to repair a high ankle sprain, a procedure that replaces metal screws with surgical thread to expedite the recovery process.

Dr. Norman Waldrop III performed the surgery at Andrews Sports Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama. Bowers started his recovery process, and UGA director of sports medicine Ron Courson will work in conjunction with Waldrop to plan Bowers’ rehabilitation.

While the typical recovery time for a TightRope surgery is four to six weeks, individual players may have varying timelines. Former Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had the surgery and was out for a month, while Tide offensive tackle Cam Robinson missed about two weeks. Tennessee wide receiver Cedric Tillman also had the procedure and missed four games.

Smart emphasized the importance of ankle movement and weight-bearing exercises in the rehabilitation process, indicating that Bowers will follow a similar rehab process to previous players. However, Smart noted that each player’s recovery timeline is unique.

Bowers opted to have the surgery promptly rather than waiting for his ankle to heal naturally. He sustained the injury during the first half of Georgia’s victory over Vanderbilt.

Smart praised Bowers’ character, calling him “rock-solid” and a “warrior.” Despite wanting to be out on the field, Bowers remains in good spirits and has the full support of his family.

Bowers has been a crucial part of Georgia’s offense this season, leading the team with 41 catches for 567 yards and four touchdowns. Prior to his injury, he achieved over 100 receiving yards in three consecutive games.

The Bulldogs currently hold the top ranking and have an open date this week. Their next game is against rival Florida on October 28, followed by matchups against ranked opponents Missouri, Ole Miss, and Tennessee. The team aims to have Bowers back as soon as possible to bolster their chances of securing another SEC championship and potentially qualifying for the College Football Playoff.

In Bowers’ absence, sophomore Oscar Delp, along with freshmen Pearce Spurlin III and Lawson Luckie, are expected to step up and contribute at the tight end position.

Wide receiver Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint expressed confidence in Bowers’ work ethic, stating that he will approach his recovery with the same determination he displays in everything he does.

Overall, Georgia remains focused on supporting Bowers in his recovery process while maintaining their competitiveness on the field.