Todd Gurley (3) could be close to returning to the Bulldogs team. (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)
Georgia will apply to the NCAA on Wednesday for running back Todd Gurley to be reinstated so he can resume playing for the Bulldogs.
The Heisman Trophy candidate and the SEC’s rushing leader with 773 yards has been suspended since Oct. 9 while school officials investigated allegations that he was paid for signing memorabilia. He missed the team’s wins over Missouri and Arkansas while serving the suspension.
SI.com had reported Gurley was allegedly paid $400 to sign 80 items for a memorabilia dealer.
“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,” the university said in a statement Wednesday.
“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.”
No. 9 Georgia has an open date this week and doesn’t play again until facing Florida in Jacksonville on Nov. 1.
“I want to thank the University, coaches, teammates, and the Bulldog Nation for their patience and support,” Gurley said in the statement. “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.”
Freshman Nick Chubb started at running back in place of Gurley. Chubb had two impressive games, carrying the ball 38 times for 144 yards and one touchdown against Missouri and 30 times for 203 yards and two scores against Arkansas.
