Benedict (6-5, 312) was listed on the depth chart as a backup to Chris Burnette at right guard. His departure leaves the Bulldogs with only 15 offensive linemen on scholarship.
Benedict hadn’t yet played for the Dawgs after completing two years of rehabilitation after injuring his knee in his senior season at The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida.
Although Benedict didn’t specifically cite what his “personal reasons” were, rumors are circulating that he did not agree with the methods of the strength and conditioning program. The program is now led by Joe Tereshinski.
If these rumors are true, it’s sad that Benedict would leave over such trivial circumstances. Tereshinski was elevated to his position, and other support staff were hired, to change the culture around the program.
Other than Washaun Ealey, who had multiple transgressions while on campus, there hasn’t been a lot of talk about players not buying in. Here’s hoping Benedict leaving is the only bump in the road.
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He is one of the greatest guys out there in athletics and very dedicated to his sport. With that said, I find it dificult to believe that the personal reasons were related directly to knee issues. Yes, he looks like he struggles at the walk with that knee injury, but he has heart and sense about his decisions in life. He is a great guy and something is up...
I read earlier today that UGA wanted to offer Benedict a medical redshirt for the 2011 season and he declined. Looks like Ron Courson (team doctor) and the UGA S&C staff think he's not ready to play, but Benedict and his family think otherwise.
I can't believe it took this long to wise up.