**Georgia Bulldogs Running Back Trevor Etienne Placed on Extended Leave for Violating Team Rules**
The University of Georgia’s football program has announced that running back Trevor Etienne has been placed on extended leave following a violation of team rules. The decision was confirmed by head coach Kirby Smart, who stated that the leave was effective immediately and that the team would continue to monitor the situation closely.
The specifics of the rule violations have not been disclosed, but sources within the program indicate that the infraction was significant enough to warrant disciplinary action. Etienne, a key contributor to the Bulldogs’ offense, was expected to play a major role this season. The extended leave means he will be sidelined indefinitely while the matter is reviewed by the coaching staff and the university’s athletic department.
Coach Kirby Smart addressed the decision during a press conference on Monday, emphasizing the importance of upholding the team’s standards and values. “Trevor is a talented young man, but every player on this team is expected to abide by certain rules and standards,” said Smart. “When those standards are not met, there are consequences. Our focus is on helping Trevor learn from this and grow as both a player and an individual. We hope he uses this time to reflect and come back stronger.”
Etienne, who transferred to Georgia this year and quickly made a name for himself with his explosive playmaking ability, released a brief statement expressing regret over his actions. “I apologize to my teammates, coaches, and fans for letting them down. I take full responsibility for my actions, and I am committed to doing whatever it takes to make things right,” said Etienne. “I will use this time away to reflect and work on myself, and I hope to rejoin the team as soon as possible.”
The absence of Etienne is a significant blow to the Bulldogs, who are currently navigating a challenging SEC schedule. With Etienne sidelined, Georgia will need to rely more heavily on other running backs on the roster, including Kendall Milton and Daijun Edwards, to pick up the slack in the backfield.
Georgia’s running back depth has been one of the team’s strengths this season, but the loss of Etienne will undoubtedly be felt. The sophomore has been instrumental in the team’s ground game, providing a powerful and dynamic rushing option that has complemented the passing attack.
The team has not set a specific timetable for Etienne’s return, stating only that the leave will remain in effect until further notice. Sources close to the program suggest that Etienne will likely have to complete certain requirements, such as counseling sessions or community service, as part of the process for reinstatement.
For now, Georgia will have to continue its quest for another SEC title without one of its top offensive weapons. The coaching staff and players have expressed their commitment to staying focused amid the adversity, with Coach Smart reiterating the “next man up” mentality that has become a hallmark of the Bulldogs’ approach.
As the situation develops, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Georgia adapts to the loss and whether Etienne will be able to earn his way back onto the field. The Bulldogs remain hopeful that he will return before the season’s end, but for now, the program is focused on maintaining its standards and continuing to compete at the highest level.
