A busy offseason has quickly turned into a roster crisis for the Georgia Bulldogs, with 10 players already heading for the exit. The program is now tussling with multiple departures, as eight Dawgs have already said their goodbyes. Luckily, the portal technically remains open for players to enter until January 16, so they still have time to get things back on track.

First, let’s look at who’s heading out the door via the transfer portal.

Outgoing portal Bulldogs players

The Bulldogs lost a significant number of players, primarily in the secondary and on the offensive line. Around 10 players have entered the portal so far during this January window.

The defensive backfield took a hit, with four players saying goodbye. The program is losing DBs Joenel Aguero (who started a lot this year and actually had 39 tackles and a pick), Ondre Evans (do not contact tag), Daniel Harris, and Jaden Harris (who already snagged a spot at Kansas).

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The offensive line and running back room also saw departures. OLs Bo Hughley and Nyier Daniels (dismissed by Kirby Smart) are gone. The Bulldogs also had RB Roderick Robinson II (who had limited carries last year but scored a clutch short TD in the SEC Championship) announcing his decision to leave Georgia because of limited playing time and injuries.

DL Jordan Thomas will be heading out to South Carolina. LB Kris Jones, with seven tackles and five QB pressures, has also hit the portal. Tight end Pearce Spurlin is also on the move after a medical retirement didn’t stick.

Besides the portal, the NFL Draft also claimed some serious talent from Athens.

The Dawgs’ team will miss key starters like the team’s WR 1, Zachariah Branch, defensive back Daylen Everette, Oscar Delp (tight end), and linebackers Christen Miller and CJ Allen.

However, the Bulldogs have also secured key returning players and additions.

Returning and New Dawgs in the house

Linebacker Raylen Wilson and defensive lineman Xzavier McLeod both announced they are returning for the 2026 season. The biggest question of all surrounds Georgia’s talented QB1. Based on a gut feeling, Gunner Stockton will return to Athens for the 2026 season.

At the same time, he did participate in the Senior Day walk, which caused a few rumors. With another year of eligibility left, most folks expect him to be the starting QB and boost his draft stock.

It’s too early to say, but there is optimism that the experienced offensive linemen Earnest Greene III and Monroe Freeling are staying put to protect Gunner Stockton, or whoever comes next if he leaves, even though they haven’t sent the official tweet yet. If they both return, they would be in the first-round discussion.

As for fresh blood, the Dawgs have already reeled in one big fish: safety Khalil Barnes from Clemson. Barnes is a significant addition, bringing Freshman All-American honors to the Athens area. He was a Freshman All-American and a three-year starter for Clemson, racking up 147 tackles, seven interceptions, and three forced fumbles in his career.

The Bulldogs are busy hosting other potential transfers, looking for more help at receiver (Tre Richardson) and on the D-line.

Based on the current balance of departures and additions so far, it’s safe to say Kirby Smart still has a lot of work to do. Surely, some more talented new players will commit to the Dawgs to reload and prepare for another national championship next season.