Kirby Smart Faces Criticism After Two More Georgia Football Arrests

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Kirby Smart Faces Criticism After Two More Georgia Football Arrests

Unfortunately for Kirby Smart, the Georgia football team is once again making headlines for the wrong reasons.

It was reported Thursday that Georgia linebackers Chris Cole and Darren Ikinnagbon were arrested on misdemeanor reckless driving charges. Both players posted bond shortly after they were arrested by the Athens-Clarke County police.

Cole is coming off a productive 2025 season where he had 59 tackles, 4.5 sacks and two pass breakups. It's unclear if his actions this offseason will jeopardize his status for the 2026 season.

"We are aware of the charges and are actively gathering additional information," a Georgia team spokesperson said. "As this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not be providing further comment at this time."

Jan 1, 2026; New Orleans, LA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart congratulates tight end Oscar Delp (4) and linebacker Quintavius Johnson (33) after a play against the Mississippi Rebels in the second quarter during the 2025 Sugar Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images© Amber Searls-Imagn Images.

Shortly after Cole and Ikinnagbon's arrests were made public, fans assigned blame to Smart. They believe he lost control of the program.

"Why does Kirby Smart get a free pass when Georgia has had like 60 driving incidents in the last 3 years," one fan asked.

"Kirby Smart has lost control of the program," a second fan declared.

"Kirby Smart has lost control," another fan commented. "Wtf is going on."

Alarming trend for Georgia.

Back in January 2023, former Georgia star Jalen Carter was involved in a fatal speed-racing incident. Recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy and offensive lineman Devin Willock sadly passed away in this high-speed crash.

In 2024, Georgia defensive back David Daniel-Sisavanh, running back Trevor Etienne and wide receiver Sacovie White were charged with reckless driving. Wide receiver Rodarius 'Rara' Thomas, meanwhile, was dismissed from the team for family-violence charges.

The madness didn't stop there for Georgia, as Marques Easley and Nitro Tuggle were arrested for reckless driving in 2025.

Hopefully, the Bulldogs can stay out of trouble for the remainder of the offseason.

This story was originally published by The Spun on Feb 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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