Trevor Etienne’s surprising decision to forgo another season at Georgia and declare for the NFL Draft has left a seismic impact on the Bulldogs’ running back room heading into 2025. While Georgia boasts a rich tradition of developing elite running backs, the departure of Etienne, a dynamic and versatile playmaker, exposes significant depth concerns that must be addressed if the Bulldogs are to improve their rushing efforts from a season ago and build an identity of explosiveness and physicality under Mike Bobo.
Nate Frazier: The Workhorse
The silver lining in this situation is the presence of Nate Frazier, a back with tremendous talent and the capability to carry the load for Georgia. Frazier has showcased the ability to be an every-down back, combining physicality with breakaway speed. However, even for a player of Frazier’s caliber, the grind of an SEC schedule demands a strong supporting cast to share the workload. The lack of reliable depth behind Frazier is the most pressing concern for the Bulldogs. Frazier led all Dawgs in carries (133) and yards (671) in the 2024 season and is poised for a breakout sophomore season.
The Depth Dilemma
Even with the excitement and promise that Frazier brings, running back, especially in the SEC, is a position that teams better have a lot of depth at to keep players fresh and prevent significant drop-off when they’re not.
Cash Jones, a veteran presence, will return in 2025, but his skill set is specialized. As an effective third-down back and reliable receiver out of the backfield, Jones excels in passing situations but lacks the ability to pound the ball between the tackles. His role is valuable, but it leaves Georgia without a true backup for first and second-down duties.
Branson Robinson and Roderick Robinson both have the potential to fill that void, but their injury histories create uncertainty. Branson has battled knee issues, while Roderick has struggled with recurring foot and ankle injuries. Both backs bring power and short-yardage prowess when healthy, but availability has been their Achilles’ heel. If either Robinson can stay on the field consistently, they could alleviate much of the pressure on Frazier.
Chauncey Bowens is another intriguing option. Despite limited experience, including a few notable snaps against Tennessee, Bowens is a complete back who could emerge as a key player in 2025. At 5’11” and 225 pounds, Bowens certainly has the physical makeup and the athleticism to make his mark next season. His development during the offseason will be critical to determining how much of an impact he can make.
Dwight Phillips Jr. offers elite speed but is more suited for a hybrid role. With his versatility, the former Georgia High School track star could provide explosive plays like jet sweeps, screens, and gadget packages. Still, he isn’t yet built to handle the demands of a traditional every-down back.
The Dillon Bell X-Factor
One creative solution could involve senior Dillon Bell, who has proven to be a versatile offensive weapon. Although Bell sees himself as a wide receiver, Georgia may look to him for situational help in the backfield. Even a limited role—such as a handful of snaps per game—could give the Bulldogs additional flexibility and a unique element to their offensive scheme.
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Trevor Etienne’s departure leaves Georgia with a mix of potential and uncertainty in the running back room. While Nate Frazier’s ability to anchor the position provides a foundation, questions around depth and health loom large. The Bulldogs must rely on a combination of player development, creative usage of hybrid talents like Bell and Phillips, and perhaps a bit of luck with injuries to maintain their standard of excellence in the backfield.
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Photo: Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire
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