ATHENS -- Georgia got a commitment from another 5-star outside linebacker on Monday. This one, though, was already on the roster.
Adam Anderson on Monday became the latest UGA player to announce his intention to return for his senior season. The 6-foot-5, 225-pound junior from Rome was ranked the No. 1 outside linebacker in the nation when he signed with the Bulldogs in 2018. He has played in every Georgia game since then, capped off with a three-tackle, two-sack, one-fumble-recovery performance in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl on New Year’s Day.
Anderson’s news followed an announcement by junior offensive line starter Jamaree Salyer earlier Monday that he was also returning for the 2021 season. So far, that’s seven of 12 underclassmen to choose returning over entering the NFL draft. Junior cornerbacks Tyson Campbell and Eric Stokes, junior center Trey Hill and redshirt sophomore outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari are entering the NFL draft.
Georgia now awaits only the decision redshirt sophomore tailback Zamir White.
Anderson’s decision is particularly good news for a defense that is losing a lot of talent in the back third. Earlier Monday came the news that Tyrique Stevenson, a part-time starter this year and projected starter next season, has entered the transfer portal. If he chooses to leave, Georgia will be replacing four of its five starters in the defensive backfield.
Anderson’s return means the Bulldogs should be able to create some pass pressure. Splitting time with Ojulari, Anderson was second on the team with 6.5 sacks for 51 yards and had 21 quarterback pressures. He has 46 quarterback pressures on just 337 career snaps.
Along with Anderson, Georgia also has Jordan Davis, Devonte Wyatt and Travon Walker coming back on the defensive front.
