Kirby Smart in Tears as Georgia Loses Trio of Players from Class of 2023 to Transfer Portal
In a shocking turn of events, Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart faced an emotional moment this week as three highly-touted players from the Class of 2023 announced their entry into the transfer portal. Known for his stoic demeanor and strategic brilliance, Smart reportedly fought back tears when addressing the situation, underscoring the emotional toll such departures can have on a program and its leader.
For Georgia, a program that has built an unparalleled reputation for depth and development, this is a rare setback. While transfer portal exits are part of the modern college football landscape, losing three players from the same recruiting class raises questions about team dynamics and player satisfaction.
The three players, each considered high-profile recruits, came to Athens with lofty expectations as part of Georgia’s No. 2-ranked 2023 recruiting class.
- Linebacker Jeremiah Sutton
Sutton, a five-star prospect from Florida, was one of the cornerstones of Georgia’s defensive haul in 2023. Known for his athleticism and sideline-to-sideline playmaking ability, Sutton was expected to develop into the next great linebacker in Kirby Smart’s system. However, after limited playing time in his freshman season, Sutton opted to explore other opportunities, citing a desire for more immediate on-field impact. - Wide Receiver Marcus Langston
Langston, a four-star recruit out of Texas, was heralded as a future star in Georgia’s evolving passing attack. Despite his natural talent and explosiveness, Langston struggled to find consistent snaps in a crowded receiver room, prompting his decision to transfer. - Offensive Lineman Caleb Morgan
Morgan, a highly-rated offensive tackle from North Carolina, was expected to be a key piece of Georgia’s offensive line in the coming years. However, Morgan cited “personal reasons” for his departure, adding that he needed a fresh start to achieve his goals both on and off the field.
Kirby Smart has built Georgia into a powerhouse program by emphasizing culture, competition, and player development. For him, the loss of these three players isn’t just about the potential impact on the field—it’s a reflection of the personal connections he builds with his players.
When speaking to the media about the departures, Smart was visibly emotional, pausing at times as he discussed his relationship with the trio.
“These young men mean a lot to me and to this program,” Smart said. “We pour everything into helping them succeed, not just as football players, but as individuals. It’s tough to see them go, but we respect their decisions and wish them nothing but the best.”
Smart’s reaction highlights the challenges coaches face in the transfer portal era, where roster turnover has become a constant reality. While some might see tears as a sign of vulnerability, Georgia fans have rallied behind their coach, appreciating his genuine care for his players.
The loss of three players from a single recruiting class is significant, but Georgia’s depth and recruiting prowess ensure the program remains in a strong position. Smart and his staff have consistently brought in top talent, with the Bulldogs regularly finishing among the top three in national recruiting rankings.
However, the departures raise questions about player satisfaction, especially in a program where competition for playing time is fierce. For young athletes who arrive as highly-touted recruits, the reality of sitting behind established stars can lead to frustration and a desire to seek opportunities elsewher
The transfer portal has revolutionized college football, offering players more freedom and flexibility than ever before. While this has created opportunities for athletes to find better fits, it has also posed challenges for coaches trying to build continuity within their programs.
For Georgia, the departures of Sutton, Langston, and Morgan are a reminder that even the most successful programs aren’t immune to the impact of the portal. Moving forward, Smart and his staff will need to adapt their approach to ensure they can retain top talent while continuing to attract elite recruits.
Despite the setback, Kirby Smart remains focused on leading Georgia to continued success. The Bulldogs are still in the hunt for another national championship, and the program’s depth ensures that they will remain a force in the SEC.
For the departing players, their decisions represent new opportunities to carve out their own paths. And for Kirby Smart, the emotional toll of losing them serves as a reminder of the personal investment that comes with coaching at the highest level.
In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, one thing is clear: Georgia and Kirby Smart will adapt and persevere, proving once again why they are one of the sport’s premier programs.