In the early hours of a Sunday morning, Georgia running back Trevor Etienne found himself in a situation far removed from the football field. The young athlete, a transfer from Florida and the sibling of NFL player Travis Etienne, was arrested on multiple charges including driving under the influence, reckless driving, and two other misdemeanors, according to online records. The incident adds to a troubling pattern of driving-related issues within the Georgia football program, casting a shadow over the team’s recent successes.
Etienne, who had been practicing with Georgia this spring, was booked into the Athens-Clarke Jail at 4:35 a.m. and released shortly after posting bond. The charges against the 20-year-old include DUI, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane/improper driving on the road, and affixing materials that reduce visibility of windows/windshield. Notably, the DUI charge is classified as ‘less safe,’ a designation in Georgia law that allows for a conviction even if the individual’s blood alcohol level is below the standard legal limit of .08.
This arrest comes at a time when Etienne was projected to be a leading figure in Georgia’s backfield. After a successful stint at Florida, where he rushed for 1,472 yards and 14 touchdowns, expectations were high for his performance with the Bulldogs. His transfer had been a significant talking point, with Georgia’s executive associate athletic director for strategic communications, Steven Drummond, acknowledging the situation by stating, ‘We are aware of the charges and are currently in the process of gathering additional information.’
Georgia’s football program has been under intense scrutiny following a series of driving-related incidents. In January 2023, the community was shaken by the tragic deaths of player Devin Willock and staff member Chandler LeCroy, who were involved in a high-speed crash. The pattern of such incidents has been a concern, with at least 15 traffic stops involving Georgia football players for excessive speeds reported in 2023 alone, including three instances of driving under the influence.
The university’s policy is clear when it comes to DUI convictions: student-athletes face a suspension of at least one game. This means that Etienne’s much-anticipated debut for Georgia could be delayed, pending the outcome of his legal proceedings. The implications of his actions extend beyond his personal circumstances, as they reflect on the broader issue of player conduct and the responsibilities that come with being part of a prestigious football program.
As the Bulldogs prepare for their season opener against Clemson on August 31, the focus should be on training and strategy. Instead, they find themselves addressing off-field behavior that undermines the discipline and excellence the team strives to represent. Coach Kirby Smart has previously expressed concerns about his players’ driving habits, and this latest incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and education on safe driving practices.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Etienne and the Georgia football program as they navigate the legal process and the court of public opinion. The hope is that this incident will serve as a wake-up call, not just for Etienne, but for all athletes who must recognize the impact of their actions on their futures and the communities they represent.
