One of the most significant off-season decisions for the Georgia Bulldogs has been made: running back Trevor Etienne has announced his return for the 2025 season, per Dawgs Nation.
His decision solidifies a dynamic backfield for the reigning SEC champions and adds another layer of depth to an already formidable offense. Etienne, who transferred from Florida in the spring of 2024, quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Georgia’s offense and a respected leader in the locker room. His relentless work ethic, adaptability, and team-first mentality earned high praise from both Offensive Coordinator Mike Bobo and Head Coach Kirby Smart.
As a seasoned veteran, Etienne seamlessly integrated into the Bulldogs’ culture, becoming one of the most trusted voices on the team. His leadership was particularly valuable in mentoring Nate Frazier, the freshman sensation who dazzled fans with a breakout season in 2024. Together, Etienne and Frazier now form one of the most formidable running back duos in college football heading into 2025.
Etienne’s decision to forgo the NFL Draft is a game-changer for Georgia. Without his return, the Bulldogs would have faced significant uncertainty in their backfield. While Frazier is a proven star, questions remain about the rest of the depth chart.
Branson Robinson and Roderick Robinson have struggled with recurring injuries, limiting their availability. Meanwhile, Dwight Phillips and Chauncey Bowens saw minimal playing time as freshmen in 2024. Although incoming freshman Bo Walker, a highly touted recruit from Rabun Gap School, has enormous potential, relying heavily on a true freshman in the rugged SEC is always a gamble.
Etienne himself dealt with injuries during the 2024 season, missing four games entirely due to a rib injury and being limited in Georgia’s loss to Ole Miss. Returning for another season allows him to achieve the goals he fell short of last year. It also ensures stability for Georgia’s offense at a critical time. With the Bulldogs losing four of their five starting offensive linemen, Etienne’s experience in blitz pickup and as a reliable outlet in the passing game will be invaluable—especially for whichever quarterback takes the reins in 2025, whether it’s Gunner Stockton or Ryan Puglisi.
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