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This week, the University of Georgia's football program faced further scrutiny as starting linebacker Smael Mondon and backup offensive tackle Bo Hughley were arrested on separate misdemeanor charges of reckless driving.
Georgia Bulldogs face new turmoil
According to booking records from the Athens-Clarke County Sheriff's Office, these incidents mark the latest in a series of traffic-related violations involving UGA players.
Bo Hughley was apprehended on Tuesday for failure to maintain lane/improper driving on road and reckless driving.
The 2022 redshirt freshman posted a $26 bond and was released the same evening at 10:08 p.m.
The following day, Smael Mondon was charged with racing on highways/streets and reckless driving.
Mondon, who played in 13 games last season and ranked second on the team with 68 tackles, also posted a $26 bond and was released early Thursday morning at 12:25 a.m.
The police report, obtained by ESPN, details the incident involving Mondon.
A police officer observed two vehicles racing at high speeds, with Mondon driving a 2022 black Dodge Charger and freshman defensive back Demello Jones in a 2021 gray Porsche Panamera.
Mondon was clocked at 75 mph in a 40 mph zone.
Although Mondon denied racing and claimed not to know the other driver, Jones stopped to check on him, itting they were teammates.
Jones received a citation for racing but was not arrested as he was not the primary vehicle in the traffic stop.
The report also notes that Mondon instructed Jones not to discuss the incident in their group chat, raising further questions about the players' conduct.
Despite this, Mondon continued to deny knowing Jones during his transport to the jail.
UGA's pattern of traffic violations
These arrests come amid ongoing concerns about the behavior of Georgia's football players on the road.
In January 2023, a tragic car accident claimed the lives of Georgia player Devin Willock and recruiting staff member Chandler LeCroy.
Former Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter, now with the Philadelphia Eagles, faced misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing in connection with the crash.
Additionally, running back Trevor Etienne was arrested in March for DUI and other offenses, with the DUI charges later dismissed.
The pattern of traffic violations has prompted questions about the culture within the program, which head coach Kirby Smart will likely address at the Southeastern Conference media days in Dallas.
As of Thursday, the university had not released a statement regarding the latest arrests.
With the season opener against Clemson approaching, the team's ability to manage these off-field issues will be closely watched.