Etienne is a midyear transfer from Florida, where he was one of the Gators’ most potent playmakers and led the team with nine touchdowns in 2023.
Only months after moving from Florida, Trevor Etienne’s anticipated future as Georgia’s new starting running back could be jeopardized by an arrest on accusations of intoxicated driving and other offenses.
Etienne may miss at least one game if found guilty of the DUI allegation.
According to jail records, Etienne was taken into custody by Athens-Clarke County police early on Sunday on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, failing to keep in his lane, driving improperly, and applying objects that obscure the windshield or windows.
At about 1:50 a.m. on Sunday, close to the University of Georgia, an officer “observed a vehicle driving recklessly,” according to a statement issued by Athens-Clarke County police on Monday. Etienne, a 19-year-old driver, was stopped by police in his grey vehicle.
After being admitted to the Athens-Clarke County Jail at 4:35 a.m., Etienne was freed in less than an hour with a bond of roughly $1,800. It was unclear whether Etienne had hired an attorney.
Athletes found guilty of DUI are subject to at least one game suspension, per Georgia’s team rules. On August 31, Georgia will play their first game of the season against Clemson.
Georgia’s senior associate athletic director for strategic communications, Steven Drummond, said in a statement to The Associated Press, “We are aware of the charges and are currently in the process of gathering additional information.” “We will not be providing any additional comments at this time as this is a pending legal matter.”
Coach Kirby Smart stated that Etienne made a good impression on the first day of spring football practice on March 12, detailing his preparation to fight for a starting position and learning the Bulldogs’ scheme. According to Smart, Etienne has adapted to the new playbook with ease, and there are similarities between the offenses of Georgia and Florida.
