Georgia football players who were arrested in March on offenses linked to driving use the transfer portal.
In March 2025, the University of Georgia’s football program faced renewed scrutiny following the arrest of sophomore wide receiver Nitro Tuggle on charges of reckless driving and speeding. This incident added to a troubling pattern of driving-related offenses within the team, raising concerns about player conduct and the program’s disciplinary measures.
Nitro Tuggle’s Arrest and Suspension
On March 20, 2025, Nitro Tuggle was arrested by Athens-Clarke County Police for reckless driving and speeding. The 19-year-old was booked and released shortly after on a $20 cash bond. Tuggle, who had previously considered transferring in December 2024, had decided to remain with the Bulldogs and was expected to take on a more prominent role in the upcoming season. Following his arrest, the University of Georgia suspended Tuggle indefinitely from all team activities.
Broader Context: A Pattern of Driving Offenses
Tuggle’s arrest is part of a series of driving-related incidents involving Georgia football players. Since a fatal crash in January 2023 that claimed the lives of offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy, the program has seen over two dozen similar incidents. These have included charges ranging from speeding and reckless driving to more severe offenses like DUI.
Other notable incidents include:
- Trevor Etienne, a transfer running back from Florida, was arrested in March 2024 on charges of DUI and reckless driving. Despite the arrest, he played a significant role in Georgia’s 2024 season, rushing for 609 yards and nine touchdowns.
- Sacovie White, a freshman wide receiver, was arrested in May 2024 for reckless driving and driving the wrong way on a one-way street.
- Marques Easley, a freshman offensive lineman, was involved in a vehicle crash in March 2025, leading to his indefinite suspension angsilo
Transfer Portal Movements
While Tuggle had previously considered entering the transfer portal, there is no current information indicating that he has done so following his March 2025 arrest. However, the program has seen other players depart via the transfer portal amid legal issues:
- Rara Thomas, a wide receiver, was dismissed from the team in August 2024 after facing charges of felony false imprisonment and misdemeanor family violence battery. He transferred to Troy University in March 2025 after accepting a plea deal.
- Smoke Bouie, a defensive back, left Georgia in August 2023 after being arrested for driving with a suspended license and providing false identification to law enforcement.
Program’s Response and Ongoing Challenges
Head coach Kirby Smart has acknowledged the challenges in curbing such behavior among players, especially in light of the fatal 2023 crash. Despite implementing educational programs and disciplinary measures, the recurrence of driving-related offenses suggests deeper issues within the program’s culture and oversight.
The arrest of Nitro Tuggle in March 2025 underscores persistent concerns regarding player conduct within the Georgia football program. While some players have faced suspensions or transferred following legal issues, the frequency of such incidents calls for a comprehensive review of the program’s disciplinary policies and player education initiatives.
