Georgia Faces Heavy Portal Traffic as Stockton Watch Continues

Georgia’s offseason arrived earlier than expected, and it came with a twist. After missing the College Football Playoff semifinals for a third straight year, head coach Kirby Smart is staring at a roster shuffle that’s been unusually active — even by today’s transfer-portal standards.

As of early January, eight Georgia players have already confirmed they’re moving on, with more than ten total names linked to the portal during the current window. The portal stays open until Jan. 16, giving the Bulldogs a bit more time to reload, but the early exits paint a clear picture of turnover in Athens.

Who’s Leaving Athens?

Most of the departures have come from the secondary and the trenches, two areas Georgia often leans on when making postseason pushes. The defensive backfield took the first major blow with defensive backs Joenel Aguero, Ondre Evans, Daniel Harris, and Jaden Harris all entering the portal. Aguero started multiple games and posted 39 tackles with one interception, making him the most notable defensive name heading out. Jaden Harris has already committed to Kansas, per reports.

On offense, the Bulldogs waved goodbye to offensive linemen Bo Hughley and Nyier Daniels, with Daniels reportedly dismissed from the program before entering the portal. Running back Roderick Robinson, who didn’t see a heavy workload but did punch in a short-yardage touchdown in the SEC Championship, also entered the portal looking for more opportunities.

The front seven wasn’t immune either. Defensive lineman Jordan Thomas is transferring to South Carolina, while linebacker Kris Jones — credited with seven tackles and five quarterback pressures — also opted for a change of scenery. Tight end Pearce Spurlin is leaving as well, despite a previous medical retirement.

Not All Doors Are Closing

Smart and his staff did secure some important news. Linebacker Raylen Wilson and defensive lineman Xzavier McLeod both announced they’ll return in 2026, giving Georgia a bit of continuity on defense.

The biggest storyline, though, is under center. Quarterback Gunner Stockton has not officially revealed his plans, keeping fans and analysts glued to social media. He participated in Senior Day festivities — a move that sparked NFL speculation — but still has a year of eligibility remaining. Most insiders expect him back as the likely QB1 in 2026, using another season to bolster his draft stock.

There’s also quiet optimism that veteran offensive linemen Earnest Greene and Monroe Freeling will stay. Both have yet to make public announcements, but multiple reports note the program’s confidence. If they return, NFL scouts will likely watch them closely.

One Big Addition — And More Expected

Georgia has already landed a major portal win: Clemson safety Khalil Barnes, a Freshman All-American who tallied 147 tackles, seven interceptions, and three forced fumbles across three seasons. Barnes is expected to compete for immediate snaps.

The Bulldogs are also hosting potential additions across receiver and defensive line, including WR Tre Richardson, as Smart looks to restock the roster before spring ball.

Meanwhile, several draft-bound Bulldogs are also gone. Wide receiver Zachariah Branch, defensive back Daylen Everette, tight end Oscar Delp, and linebackers Christen Miller and CJ Allen are among those heading to the NFL.

What’s Next?

The overall picture? Georgia isn’t in crisis mode, but Smart has work to do. More portal movement is expected — both in and out — as the program tries to retool for another championship run.

Even after a flurry of goodbyes, the Bulldogs remain a top destination for transfers and recruits. Now the question becomes whether that momentum can overcome the turnover and get Georgia back into the playoff conversation in 2026.

Also Read: Urban Meyer, Jeremiah Smith Call Out OSU’s Trenches