ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia linebackers Chris Cole and Darren Ikinnagbon were arrested Wednesday night for speeding and reckless driving by Athens-Clarke County police.
According to jail records, Cole was arrested at 9:59 p.m. and released on $26 bail at 10:39 p.m. Ikinnagbon, also charged with following too closely, was arrested at 10:27 p.m. and released on $39 bail at 11:08 p.m.
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Georgia told The Associated Press on Thursday that the school was aware of the accusations and was gathering information.
“As this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not provide additional comment at this time,” the school’s statement said.
Georgia coach Kirby Smart expressed frustration last season in trying to stop driving infractions from players. Georgia saw three players leave the program following arrests for driving violations last season.
The issue took on added importance when an accident killed a player and a scout in January 2023, shortly after the team celebrated its second consecutive national championship. Offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiter Chandler LeCroy were killed in the crash.
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Nitro wide receiver Tuggle and offensive lineman Marques Easley were suspended from the team on March 20, 2025, after Tuggle was arrested for speeding and reckless driving. They eventually left the program.
Additionally, offensive lineman Nyier Daniels was dismissed from the team on November 24, 2025, following his arrest on multiple charges stemming from a high-speed police chase in the town of Commerce, near Athens.
Cole ranked fourth on the team with 59 tackles and second with seven tackles for loss, including 4.5 sacks, as a sophomore last season. Ikinnagbon appeared in five games and made two tackles as a freshman.
