TLDR: Kelton Smith, an offensive lineman for the Georgia Bulldogs, has announced his early retirement from the sport just a month out from 2024’s season start. As confirmed by Dawgs Daily and initially reported by On3, Smith’s departure comes because of a medical disqualification, cutting his anticipated second season with Georgia short. Although specifics on his health problems aren’t disclosed, reports indicate Smith has been grappling with numerous issues. The player was prepared to contribute to the offensive guard position this preseason, but he was sidelined during the team’s G-Day Scrimmage. Committing to Georgia in 2022, Smith chose the Bulldogs over SEC rivals LSU, Florida, and Texas A&M, plus Florida State. He was ranked as the No. 13 interior offensive lineman nationally, according to comprehensive ratings from four recruiting services. With his exit, Georgia loses two from the 2023 offensive linemen class, Smith following Joshua Miller, who transferred to Syracuse. Smith’s retirement marks the second such case in Georgia’s offseason, echoing Pearce Spurlin’s earlier departure due to a congenital heart condition.

Kelton Smith, previously an offensive lineman for the Georgia Bulldogs, has retired from football due to medical issues, as disclosed by Dawgs Daily. Prior to making this decision, Smith was poised to commence his second season with the Bulldogs, a promising step he will no longer take. On3 initially broke the news regarding his medical disqualification.

There are no detailed reports about Smith’s health issues, but it has been noted that several complications contributed to his early retirement. Throughout the preseason, Smith was expected to bolster the team at the offensive guard spot. Still, he ultimately observed from the sidelines during Georgia’s G-Day Scrimmage, unable to contribute on the field.

Smith emerged from Carver-Columbus in Georgia, joining the Bulldogs as part of the 2022 class. His choice to commit to Georgia saw him pick the Bulldogs over several Southeastern Conference powerhouses, including LSU, Florida, Texas A&M, as well as Florida State. The promising player was widely recognized, rated as the 13th best interior offensive lineman in the country at that time.

His early departure results in the loss of two offensive linemen from Georgia’s 2023 recruiting class. Smith follows in the footsteps of Joshua Miller, another promising player who has since transferred to Syracuse. The Bulldogs face the daunting task of filling these gaps before the new season unfolds.

Smith’s situation isn’t isolated this offseason; he is the second member of the Bulldogs to medically retire. Earlier, former tight end Pearce Spurlin also stepped back from the sport due to a congenital heart issue. The Bulldogs must now navigate these unforeseen changes as they transition into the approaching football season.