Georgia football: 3 players who must make their decision for next year

AUBURN, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 09: Head coach Kirby Smart of the Georgia Bulldogs converses with Nolan Smith #4 against the Auburn Tigers during the first half at Jordan-Hare Stadium on October 09, 2021 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
AUBURN, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 09: Head coach Kirby Smart of the Georgia Bulldogs converses with Nolan Smith #4 against the Auburn Tigers during the first half at Jordan-Hare Stadium on October 09, 2021 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Georgia football
Kearis Jackson celebrates a play against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the College Football Playoff Championship. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)

Georgia football WR Kearis Jackson

The first name on this list is Kearis Jackson, and while some Georgia football fans think this is an easy decision — it isn’t that simple. Jackson could declare for the NFL Draft, but it’s doubtful he would get picked up after this season.

He dealt with injuries throughout the season and just never got much going. There were a lot of expectations for this receiver, but with those injuries, others stepped up in his place.

Jackson did a great job with return duties on special teams, though, where the Dawgs used him the most in 2021.

He finished the season with 16 catches for 194 yards and one score. Jackson recorded six kickoff returns for 116 yards on special teams, averaging 19.3 yards. Then on punt returns, he finished with 22 for 189 yards averaging 8.6 yards each time.

Jackson is one of those names that could likely stay at Georgia for another season, or he could hit the transfer portal and find a new home where he could be highlighted more on the offense to increase that draft stock.

The Dawgs could use him back in Athens next year, but he is the first guy Georgia needs to know if he is hitting the transfer portal or giving the draft a shot.

While some may feel like whatever Jackson decides isn’t a big deal, he is a veteran receiver the Dawgs know they can trust, so if he stays, it’s beneficial. Georgia has someone who can step up if he leaves, but Jackson is a playmaker the Dawgs wouldn’t mind keeping around.