Georgia started practice without wide receiver Rara Thomas after his dismissal from the team due to charges of cruelty to children and battery.
Coach Kirby Smart met with Thomas on Tuesday to inform him of the decision, leading to his permanent removal from the team.
Arrested on charges of cruelty to children and battery, Thomas was released on $3,500 bond on Tuesday.
Thomas had 23 catches for 383 yards and one touchdown last season, making him one of the team’s key returning targets.
Thomas, a transfer from Mississippi State, previously faced a felony charge of false imprisonment and a misdemeanor count of family violence battery.
Georgia, favored to win the Southeastern Conference, had six preseason first-team All-SEC picks.
The loss of Thomas leaves the team without an experienced receiver, affecting the offensive lineup for the upcoming season.
Georgia’s season opener against Clemson is scheduled for Aug. 31 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
In another news piece related to college football, Miami quarterback Cam Ward was named the ACC Preseason Player of the Year.
Ward transferred from Washington State and was a standout player with significant achievements.
The ACC preseason honors also included recognition for North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton and Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter.
