Dante Dowdell absent as Georgia opens preseason practice

Georgia football begins preseason practice on August 5 without running back Dante Dowdell, who is recovering from serious injuries sustained in an ATV accident. Coach Kirby Smart confirmed Dowdell is currently hospitalized at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, mentioning the importance of his health over football concerns. With Dowdell unavailable, junior Dwight Phillips is expected to expand his role, having prepared physically for the upcoming season. Dowdell has a career total of 1,264 rushing yards and is a former standout at Nebraska and Kentucky. The team will also rely on contributions from sophomore Bo Walker and freshman Jae Lamar in the running back position.

• 4:41 PMYahoo Sports — Kirby Smart on Dante Dowdell recovery, year 3 of Dwight Phillips with Georgia football