Terrence Edwards: Arik Gilbert 'needs your prayers and positivity'

Terrence Edwards, one of the best wide receivers in the history of the Georgia Bulldogs, has a request for fans regarding Arik Gilbert.

Last week, it was revealed that Gilbert, a transfer from LSU and former 5-star recruit who came to Georgia this summer, was away from the team. Georgia coach Kirby Smart confirmed Gilbert was away from the team last week due to “personal reasons.”

Because of Gilbert’s stature and potential, the revelation started a firestorm of speculation and rumor. Edwards, who helps train and mentor Gilbert, was bothered by said speculation.

“My biggest issue is that a lot of people in the DawgNation feel entitled to know what’s going on with the young man,” Edwards said, speaking to Brandon Adams of DawgNation. “The young man is dealing with a situation, and it’s none of anyone’s business with what’s going on.

“Coach Smart told everyone that it is a ‘personal issue’ … the man needs your prayers and your positivity. He doesn’t need all the speculation and rumors — that are just not true about the young man.

“I have had to bite my tongue a few times this week on social media just because of a very few select fans. All I ask from everyone is just to pray for the young man. Whenever he’s back, let’s cheer him on then. But all this other stuff … he has a mother, a brother and a grandmother. How do you think they feel reading all of this … knowing their child is in need of prayer and positivity?

“That bothered me this week, and I was ready to get that message out there. Just send him all your love and prayers, and not all of this ‘next man up’ crap. He’s a person, at the end of the day.”

More on Arik Gilbert, Georgia

Georgia landed the former LSU player and Florida commit on June 1 with the idea to convert him to wide receiver. While there is no timeline for Gilbert’s return, it’s obvious the Bulldogs’ coaching staff has high hopes for him this season.

“I think he has adapted well,” said Todd Monken, Georgia offensive coordinator, after practice last week. “He’s a special talent because he’s in the Brock Bowers mode, he’s athletic enough to play receiver, but big enough to do some things on the interior. He’s a size matchup, he’s a run after catch guy. He loves to play the game. We’re excited that he’s a part of our program.”

Arik Gilbert had 35 catches for 368 yards and two touchdowns in eight games for LSU as a freshman. The 6-foot-5, 250-pound hybrid threat lined up in a variety of spots on and off the line of scrimmage.

On3’s Sean Labar contributed to this article.