On Sunday, though, the Bulldogs learned that a key defensive back will be entering the transfer portal. Julian Humphrey, who appeared in all but 1 game in 2024, will look to play elsewhere in 2025.
The portal officially opens in a little over a week so teams that make the College Football Playoff will still be playing. Smart was asked about he intended to deal with Humphrey’s decision.
“I’m not dealing with it. I’m worried about my team. I’ve learned in this thing that you worry about the players who are with you, not the ones who aren’t. … It’s a decision each kid has to make,” said the coach.
Smart was then asked more specifically about Humphrey’s status but Smart didn’t offer up much.
“No status that I’m aware of,” said Smart. “I saw the same thing you did. We’re worried about the guys that are going to be with the team.”
The coach did not clarify when the follow-up question was asked about whether Humphrey was with the team currently. Smart’s comments make it seem like the DB did not communicate with the coaching staff before making the decision.
In the era of the transfer portal and NIL, it’s likely Humphrey won’t be the only Georgia player to enter the portal. Based on Smart’s comments, though, the Bulldogs will worry about that once their season is over.