Former 5-Star Linebacker Brenton Cox Dismissed From Georgia
By Michael Luciano
Kirby Smart and Georgia have become an NFL factory during his short tenure, pumping out defensive stars, especially at linebacker, on a routine basis. Following Roquan Smith's departure to the NFL, 5-star linebacker Brenton Cox figured to be the next in the conveyer belt of tough, quality Georgia linebackers.
That dream is reportedly dead, however, as Cox has been dismissed from the team.
Sources: Brenton Cox has been dismissed from the Georgia football team. https://t.co/dzmlSIM24C
— Anthony Dasher (@AnthonyDasher1) August 5, 2019
While there was no reason given for his expulsion from the team, it could have something to do with the fact that he and fellow former 5-star Robert Beal were arrested in April for possession of marijuana.
Here’s what #UGA defensive coordinator Dan Lanning said when asked about Brenton Cox today.
— Wes Blankenship (@Wes_nship) August 5, 2019
The #Dawgs reportedly dismissed the sophomore linebacker on Sunday, per @UGASportscom. #11Alive https://t.co/mu9P7keA3q pic.twitter.com/bMTQwXbyML
Cox played in 13 games as a backup last season, recording 20 tackles. He figured to start at inside linebacker this season.
Georgia's highly-touted 2017 class, which featured seven 5-stars, has lost most of its luster thanks to Cox's dismissal and the transfer of Justin Fields.
Georgia's 2018 recruiting class ranked #1 nationally and included 7 five-star signees.
— SEC Mike (@MichaelWBratton) August 5, 2019
Two of them are now gone before the 2019 season following this Brenton Cox development. Luke Ford also gone from that class.
Cox had a pathway to the NFL paved for him. All he had to do was stay healthy and focus on his play on the field. However, his off-field antics became too much for Smart and the Bulldogs, and now his collegiate career might hang by a thread.