Dominick Blaylock, Georgia’s young slot receiver, suffers another season-ending injury

Georgia sophomore wide receiver Dominick Blaylock suffered a season-ending ACL injury during Wednesday’s practice, a source close to Blaylock confirmed to The Telegraph on Thursday morning. The school later confirmed the news.

Blaylock’s injury is on the same knee that was injured during the SEC Championship game in December. That’s two torn ACLs in a span of eight months for the sophomore slot receiver.

“University of Georgia sophomore wide receiver Dominick Blaylock suffered an injury to his left knee Wednesday during a non-contact drill,” a statement issued by a team spokesman said. “Surgery will be required and he will miss the 2020 season. A full recovery is expected.”

Blaylock had been on a fast track toward recovery and potentially returning for the Bulldogs. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart recently said Blaylock had taken gradual progressions through the offseason.

“He is not completely cleared yet, but he has worked really hard,” Smart said on Aug. 16. “He has been able to do some straight-line running and some workout stuff.”

Wednesday’s practice was Blaylock’s first since being fully cleared, the source said.

Blaylock has suffered three injuries over recent years. The two ACL injuries follow a fractured ankle suffered in high school. Georgia has had luck with players returning after multiple torn ACLs, however, as running back Zamir White experienced a similar series of events.

Blaylock had an opportunity to emerge alongside fellow sophomore George Pickens in a youthful receiving corps. Georgia’s unit struggled to find consistency last season in its run to the Sugar Bowl, but Blaylock emerged as a bright spot through most of the campaign. He recorded 310 receiving yards and five touchdowns, including the game-winning score at Auburn.

Georgia’s group has to realign without the chance of Blaylock returning this season. Pickens could be joined by Kearis Jackson, who offensive coordinator Todd Monken called a “pleasant surprise.” Demetris Robertson could be another replacement at the slot position. Blaylock and Robertson also returned punts for the Bulldogs last season.

“This is a group of talented guys who have truly been a joy to work with,” Monken said. “They’re excited about the opportunities they have in front of them. We’re still relatively young with guys we’re counting on.”