Kirby Smart praises Arik Gilbert's progress, doesn't commit to playing opportunities

On3 imageby:Steve Samra10/05/22

SamraSource

While Georgia is still waiting on Arik Gilbert to make his ultimate impact on the field, many are wondering just when that’ll come. Still, the star tight end traveled with the Bulldogs on their trip to Missouri last weekend, a positive sign despite him not dressing.

On Wednesday, Kirby Smart gave an update on Gilbert, stating that he’s “hopeful” he’ll have an impact on the field at Georgia this season.

“I’m very proud of Arik’s progress and what he’s done, and continue to be hopeful that he’ll contribute and help us,” stated Smart.

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Smart has consistently been asked about Gilbert this season but not much progress has been made on a weekly basis. Evidently, there’s now a sliver of hope he can continue to make an impact to the squad, adding to what is already an impressive Georgia offense.

Moreover, Gilbert joined the Georgia program from LSU, being one of the highest regarded transfers at the time. The same was true as a recruit, being ranked a five-star prospect by the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting services. No other tight end was ranked higher in the 2020 class.

With Gilbert sidelined, Brock Bowers and Darnell Washington have led the charge for the Bulldogs. Perhaps there will be a time when Gilbert can get into the mix himself at tight end, but that will have to wait.

In 2022, Gilbert has only stepped on the field against Oregon and Samford this year, playing in reserve. He has not recorded a stat while in Athens. Eventually, Arik Gilbert will get his full chance with the Bulldogs.

This weekend, Georgia will be back in Athens to take on Auburn. Time will tell when Gilbert is back on the field, whether it’s this weekend or later in the season.

On3’s Griffin McVeigh contributed to this report.