Kirby Smart Gives an Update on Georgia Bulldogs Running Back’s Condition McCray, Josh
As the Georgia Bulldogs enter another critical phase of fall camp, head coach Kirby Smart has provided a detailed and hopeful update on running back Josh McCray. The junior transfer from Illinois has been one of the most closely monitored players in the program throughout the offseason, with injuries impacting his availability and raising questions about his role in Georgia’s backfield rotation heading into the 2025 season. Smart’s remarks offered clarity, context, and optimism regarding McCray’s condition, signaling the potential return of a powerful and imposing back who could make a significant difference in Georgia’s offensive scheme.
Josh McCray came to Georgia with a reputation for physicality, toughness, and a downhill running style that perfectly fits the Bulldogs’ traditional offensive identity. At 6-foot-1 and 240 pounds, McCray was expected to bring a bruising element to Georgia’s run game, complementing the speed and agility of other backs like Branson Robinson and Andrew Paul. However, his transition to the SEC has been hindered by a series of lower-body injuries that have limited his practice reps and sidelined him for much of last season. His absence left a noticeable void in the Bulldogs’ short-yardage game, where his punishing running style was expected to be a game-changer.
During his recent media session, Smart addressed McCray’s health status head-on, acknowledging the setbacks but highlighting the progress that has been made in recent weeks. According to Smart, McCray has resumed individual drills and has participated in light contact sessions, signaling a cautious yet positive progression in his rehabilitation process. “Josh is doing everything we’ve asked of him. He’s been relentless in his rehab, and the training staff is very pleased with where he is right now,” Smart said. “He’s not at 100 percent yet, but he’s trending in that direction.”
Smart was careful not to commit to a specific timeline for McCray’s full return to game action, noting that the team is focused on long-term health and sustained availability rather than rushing him back for early-season reps. “We’re going to be smart with Josh. We’ve got a deep room, and we don’t want to put him in a position where we risk re-injury,” Smart continued. “The goal is to have him peaking when it matters most in conference play, in the stretch run, and hopefully beyond.”
McCray’s situation is emblematic of Georgia’s broader approach to player health and workload management. With injuries having affected several members of the running back corps in recent seasons, including Kendall Milton and Branson Robinson, the Bulldogs’ coaching and medical staff have implemented more stringent conditioning, monitoring, and rotation strategies. This approach, according to Smart, is designed to maximize performance while minimizing injury risks throughout the grueling SEC schedule.
While McCray’s physical tools have never been in question, Smart emphasized the mental toughness and commitment that the back has shown throughout his recovery. “He’s one of the hardest workers in the building. He’s quiet, he’s focused, and he’s hungry,” Smart said. “He hasn’t let this situation get him down. If anything, it’s made him more determined.”
That determination has not gone unnoticed by McCray’s teammates. Offensive lineman Sedrick Van Pran spoke highly of McCray’s work ethic and influence in the locker room. “Josh is a guy we all respect. He puts his head down and goes to work. We know what he brings to the table, and we can’t wait to see him back out there doing what he does best.”
Quarterback Carson Beck echoed those sentiments, describing McCray as a “game-changer” when fully healthy. “He’s a tough dude to bring down. If you need two yards, he’s going to get you three. If he gets a lane, he can wear a defense down,” Beck said. “He’s a valuable piece of our offense, and we’re pulling for him.”
At his peak, McCray brings a rare combination of size, balance, and vision that allows him to excel in short-yardage and red-zone situations. During his time at Illinois, he flashed the ability to carry defenders, break tackles, and sustain drives, often serving as the workhorse in critical moments. Georgia’s coaching staff sees similar potential and is eager to incorporate his skill set into the offense once he is fully cleared.
Despite his injury struggles, McCray has remained engaged with the playbook and has taken mental reps to stay prepared. Running backs coach Dell McGee praised McCray for his dedication to film study and his willingness to mentor younger players in the room. “Josh has been a leader in his own way. He’s vocal when he needs to be, and he’s always encouraging the younger guys,” McGee said. “Even when he’s not on the field, he’s finding ways to contribute.”
Georgia’s offensive scheme under Mike Bobo emphasizes balance and versatility. The running back room features a mix of power, speed, and receiving ability, and Bobo has hinted at incorporating multiple-back formations to take advantage of this diversity. A healthy McCray could serve as the anchor in these packages, providing the physical presence needed to keep defenses honest and create opportunities for play-action and misdirection.
Smart also noted that McCray’s size and experience could make him a valuable asset in pass protection—a critical component of Georgia’s offense, particularly with a new starting quarterback and a revamped offensive line. “He understands protections, he knows where to be, and he’s not afraid to step up and block. That’s something we value immensely,” Smart said.
The Bulldogs are set to face several physical defenses in the first half of the season, including matchups against Clemson and South Carolina. Having a fully recovered McCray available could tip the balance in close contests, especially in games where establishing the run and controlling the tempo will be crucial. His ability to move the chains, wear down front sevens, and secure tough yards in the trenches gives Georgia another option in its already potent offensive arsenal.
While fans and analysts alike are eager to see McCray in action, Smart has urged patience and emphasized the importance of sticking to the recovery plan. “He’s going to get there. It’s just a matter of continuing to build that base, getting comfortable again, and stacking good days,” Smart said. “We want him to have a long, successful season—not just a couple of games.”
For McCray, the journey back has been both challenging and enlightening. In a rare media appearance, he acknowledged the difficulties of being sidelined but expressed gratitude for the support he’s received from teammates, coaches, and trainers. “It’s been tough, but I’ve learned a lot about myself,” McCray said. “I’ve stayed focused, leaned on my faith, and kept working. I’m thankful to be in a program that cares about doing things the right way.”
He also hinted at what motivates him as he prepares for a return to the field. “I came here to compete, to win, and to be a part of something special. I believe in this team and what we’re building,” McCray said. “When I get back out there, I’m going to leave it all on the field.”
The timeline for McCray’s full return remains uncertain, but all indications point to meaningful progress. If he continues to respond positively to treatment and gradually increases his workload, he could be a factor by the time SEC play begins. For now, the Bulldogs are proceeding with cautious optimism, managing his reps carefully and ensuring he’s fully ready when the time comes.
As the Georgia Bulldogs aim for another playoff push and national championship contention, the health and availability of key contributors like Josh McCray will play a pivotal role. Kirby Smart’s update serves as a reminder of the resilience it takes to compete at the highest level, and the value of depth, preparation, and patience in the pursuit of sustained excellence.
Injuries may have slowed McCray temporarily, but with determination, support, and careful management, he remains a potential difference-maker in Georgia’s backfield. Whether it’s breaking tackles, picking up blitzes, or energizing the sideline with a hard-nosed run, McCray’s time is coming and the Bulldogs will be ready when he is.
