Nick Chubb was at practice but without something of note

There was one noticeable item absent from Georgia’s Thursday practice.

Running back Nick Chubb was not wearing anything around his knee.

Throughout the preseason, Chubb has sported either a brace or a wrap on his left knee, which sustained a significant injury last season against Tennessee. Chubb tore his PCL, MCL and LCL, which prematurely ended his season.

Chubb is slated to play in Georgia’s opener against North Carolina on Sept. 3, although neither Chubb nor head coach Kirby Smart has declared this. Smart came close on Wednesday, saying that “Nick’s in line to get carries” in reference to each of Georgia’s available backs seeing playing time against the Tar Heels.

Chubb’s season ended early with 747 yards and 7 touchdowns – in five full games and the first play from scrimmage against Tennessee. Chubb hasn’t been limited at all this preseason.

Fellow running back Elijah Holyfield (ankle) was still out of practice and on the exercise bike. Holyfield was catching passes from a staffer while pedaling on the bike at a fast speed. Holyfield, who sustained an ankle sprain at Georgia’s second scrimmage, isn’t expected to be out long and could return to practice before the end of the week.

The only two players in black non-contact jerseys were running back Sony Michel (arm) and offensive lineman Sam Madden (mononucleosis). Madden was walking laps around the field while Michel continued to take part in individual drills.

Michel has been able to participate in 7-on-7 drills but has yet to be cleared for contact. His status for the North Carolina game remains unknown.

Cornerback Juwuan Briscoe (shoulder) was full-go for the second consecutive day. Smart said Wednesday that the coaching staff was protecting him from further injury, which means he still figures to be in line to start. Briscoe has been with the first team all preseason.  

For the third consecutive day, defensive tackle John Atkins (hyperextended knee), safety Quincy Mauger (ankle) and tight end Charlie Woerner (ankle) were able to practice with their position groups.

This story was originally published August 25, 2016 at 4:43 PM with the headline "Nick Chubb was at practice but without something of note."