Georgia’s Richt: RB Todd Gurley heading to NFL

FILE - In this Nov. 23, 2013, file photo, Georgia running back Todd Gurley (3) dives into the end zone for a touchdown as Kentucky cornerback Jaleel Hytchye, left, defends in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Athens, Ga. Georgia coach Mark Richt says junior running back Gurley has informed him that he plans to enter the NFL draft. Richt made the announcement after practice Friday, Dec. 26, 2014, for the Belk Bowl. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, File) FILE - In this Nov. 23, 2013, file photo, Georgia running back Todd Gurley (3) dives into the end zone for a touchdown as Kentucky cornerback Jaleel Hytchye, left, defends in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Athens, Ga. Georgia coach Mark Richt says junior running back Gurley has informed him that he plans to enter the NFL draft. Richt made the announcement after practice Friday, Dec. 26, 2014, for the Belk Bowl. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)

By Associated Press December 26, 2014 2 min read

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) – Georgia running back Todd Gurley has informed coach Mark Richt that he plans to enter the NFL draft.

Richt said after practice Friday for the Belk Bowl that Gurley won’t return for his senior season. The 13th-ranked Bulldogs face No. 20 Louisville on Tuesday.

The news doesn’t come as a huge surprise.

Gurley was a preseason Heisman Trophy candidate and got off to a strong start, but a four-game suspension and a knee injury derailed a promising season.

Richt said Gurley’s rehabilitation is going well and his spirits are high.