Georgia tight end Pearce Spurlin entering the transfer portal

Georgia tight end Pearce Spurlin will be continuing his college football career elsewhere.

The Class of 2023 signee announced his intention to enter the transfer portal on Tuesday morning. UGASports reported the move was likely last week.

Spurlin played in six games as a freshman in 2023. He caught three passes for 60 yards, including a 31-yard reception in the Orange Bowl victory against Florida State.

In March 2024, Spurlin announced he would be retiring from football due to a heart condition.

“Spurlin has a congenital heart condition that representatives from Georgia were aware of and that they have closely monitored,” a statement from Georgia said. “Over time and after discussion and counseling with medical specialists, Spurlin and his family have made the decision that he will no longer play. He will remain on scholarship, continue with his studies at Georgia and work with the football team in another role.”

Spurlin has now been cleared to play football again and will look to find a home elsewhere. He released a statement of his own on Tuesday.

“Today, I am beyond grateful and blessed to report that I have received full medical clearance to return to play this game that I love,” Spurlin said on Instagram. “All glory goes to God for leading me through this journey and blessing me with my health. Thank you to my family and friends for all your love and support. Thank you to my amazing medical team at the Cleveland Clinic and Athens Piedmont Hospital.”

Spurlin went on to thank the Georgia staff and explain his decision to transfer.

“A huge heartfelt thank you to Coach Smart and everyone at the University of Georgia for supporting me every step of the way. The bonds I have made with my teammates and the relationships I have built with so many people here will last a lifetime. Although I am not able to return to play here at UGA per NCAA rules of medically disqualifying, my time at UGA has been nothing but special.”

Georgia is also set to lose senior tight end Oscar Delp after the season. The Bulldogs are set to bring back junior Lawson Luckie, Jaden Reddell, Colton Heinrich, Elyiss Williams, and Ethan Barbour. Georgia also signed a trio of tight ends in the 2026 class, headlined by five-star Kaiden Prothro.