Georgia Hopeful Todd Gurley Will Be Reinstated Before Next Game

By Michael Terrill @MichaelTerrill on October 22, 2014

The Georgia Bulldogs understand what running back Todd Gurley did was wrong. With that said, the school feels that his indefinite suspension, which has caused him to miss the last two games, needs to be lifted. In fact, the University has gone as far as to file an official reinstatement on Gurley’s behalf.

The following is the full statement released by Georgia early Wednesday morning:

“Since completing its initial review of the eligibility matter involving UGA student-athlete Todd Gurley on October 9, the University has been supporting Todd and cooperating with his legal counsel as they review the matter. Todd has confirmed his desire to seek reinstatement, and the University fully supports Todd’s request. The University plans to file the necessary paperwork with the NCAA later today.”

Gurley had a personal statement as well:

“I want to thank the University, coaches, teammates, and the Bulldog Nation for their patience and support. I take full responsibility for the mistakes I made, and I can’t thank the University, my coaches, and teammates enough for supporting me throughout this process. I’m looking forward to getting back on the field with my teammates.”

Gurley’s attorney, William King, said, “Todd has taken responsibility for his actions and is ready to rejoin his teammates. The University has been great throughout the past two weeks and has done everything it can to support Todd. I would especially like to thank President Morehead, Greg McGarity, and Coach Richt for standing by Todd. The University hopes for and expects a prompt ruling by the NCAA so that Todd, his coaches, and teammates can adequately prepare for our next game.”

Gurley has been forced to miss games because of his violation of the NCAA’s policy that frowns upon collegiate players autographing sports memorabilia. His involvement came to the forefront when an autograph dealer confessed that he paid Gurley roughly $400 to autograph 80 items in which he intended to sell.

The reason Gurley’s mistake made national headlines is because he was the frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy prior to his indefinite suspension. The good news for him is that many football experts do not believe the suspension will affect his NFL draft stock as he is still considered the favorite to be the first running back taken off the board in 2015.

Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.