Georgia Football: Projected 2-deep depth chart for 2017

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ATHENS, GA – SEPTEMBER 27: Lorenzo Carter #7 of the Georgia Bulldogs reacts after a defensive stop against the Tennessee Volunteers at Sanford Stadium on September 27, 2014 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Linebackers

Starting inside linebackers: Roquan Smith, Natrez Patrick
Backups: Reggie Carter, Monty Rice

With four linebackers to account for, the Bulldogs luckily don’t have to think too hard about who will get the nod in the starting rotation in 2017. Juniors Roquan Smith and Natrez Patrick are back to start at the inside linebacker spots after doing so in 2016. The former led the team in tackles with 95 last season, adding five tackles for loss. He could be an All-SEC first-teamer by season’s end.

On the other hand, Patrick finished third on the team with 59 total tackles to go along with 4.5 for loss and a sack. This is a formidable starting duo in the middle. Reggie Carter also returns with starting experience and was eighth on the team in tackles last season. Freshman Monty Rice will get a chance to crack the lineup and is looking to take over as a No. 1 in 2018.

Starting outside linebackers: Lorenzo Carter, Davin Bellamy
Backups: D’Andre Walker, Chauncey Manac

The outside linebacker positions will be occupied by returning starters as well. The Bulldogs will run out Lorenzo Carter and Davin Bellamy, two seniors, in 2017. Carter also has the potential to be an All-SEC candidate if he performs at a high level like he did a year ago. He finished with just 44 total tackles, but he added six tackles for loss and five sacks. Quite the blitzing threat. Bellamy, too, had five sacks last season to go along with nine tackles for loss and 51 takedowns.

Junior D’Andre Walker had 19 total tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss in a limited role during the 2016 season while freshman Chauncey Manac is a former four-star prospect. The depth at linebacker is impressive.

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