While the secondary as a group is my biggest area of concern for Georgia’s 2021 prospects, the single position question that looms largest for me is, after watching the bowl game, left tackle. It seems pretty apparent that the coaches want to move Salyer inside to a guard position, but it’s hard to see how Truss’ performance against Cincinnati gives them the confidence to do so.
As for other options, check out Jake Rowe’s position outlook piece here.
Jamaree Salyer (Senior): A move to left guard could be the move here but it’s going to take someone stepping up and playing left tackle at a high level. Salyer provides a security blanket for the Bulldogs in that regard. He’s a very good tackle but he’s a potentially dominant guard.
Xavier Truss (Redshirt sophomore): He has a little experience at this spot and he probably learned some lessons the hard way against Cincinnati. He has the length and athleticism to play the spot but he has to clean up his technique and grow from a mental standpoint. He seemed to lack focus and patience in the Peach Bowl.
Broderick Jones (Redshirt freshman): The former five-star prospect’s athleticism was on full display in the mop-up action he saw late last season. The sky’s the limit for Jones but he has to attack the off season. Smart commented no Jones need to get bigger and stronger late last season and that’s something he can control between now and the start of preseason camp. This spring will offer him the opportunity to build on his knowledge and comfort level within the offense.
Amarius Mims (Freshman): Never count out a player this talented. Mims, like Jones, has tremendous potential. He has a college-ready body at 6-foot-7 315 pounds and he has already impressed with his power. He has the length offensive line coaches desire at left tackle and he has the athleticism to go with it. This spring will probably be a struggle for him in some ways. His head will be spinning much like Jones’ was during preseason camp. He’s going to need a little time but how much depends on how quickly he can pick things up.
As much as they’d like to move Salyer, they won’t unless they’re comfortable with another option at left tackle. Does Truss step up? What about Jones taking the big step in his second season? Talent certainly isn’t the issue. Experience is. By all accounts, Mims is a total stud. But, do you really want to entrust protecting Daniels’ blind side to a true freshman? We shall see.