While many of the names Blake Brockermeyer touched on in his 12 most disappointing players so far for CBS Sports are totally merited, it was strange to see Georgia Bulldogs offensive tackle Earnest Greene III listed among the likes of Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway, Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love and Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning. Why is Greene on it?
Brockermeyer had Greene listed eighth of 12 on his list. He cites that "He looks banged up and out of shape struggling to anchor or change direction." There may be some truth to that, but the guy has not been healthy. Greene did not play in Week 2 vs. Austin Peay after dealing with a back injury. He did suit up and play vs. the Tennessee Volunteers in Week 3, but did not look like the same player.
Where Brockermeyer got a little too mean-spirited is by saying he was "Once considered an early-round draft prospect." Maybe at one point in time he was that, but not coming into this season... Heading into Week 4, NFL Mock Draft Database has Greene listed as Georgia's 10th best draft-eligible prospect for 2026 with a projected sixth-round grade. Why is Brockermeyer picking on him?
Even though Georgia's offensive line needs to improve, this dinging does feel a bit heavy-handed.
Earnest Greene III has to play better, but he is not Georgia's biggest issue
Not only has Greene been hurt, but so has Juan Gaston. Although center Drew Bobo has been the Dawgs' best offensive linemen by far up to this point in the season, it has been a bit makeshift up front because of these two injuries. Having an extra week to prepare and get healthy ahead of Alabama is huge for the team. However, they really need for Stacy Searels to earn his salary soon.
Perhaps the most frustrating thing about Georgia this season is how poorly Kirby Smart's assistant coaches have performed. Whether it be Mike Bobo, Glenn Schumann or their much-maligned offensive line coach Searels, none are living up to the standard of their predecessors. Smart may have strong personal ties to all three of them, but they cannot be the reason this team falls short.
Ultimately, the team's best players have to make plays when it matters most. In a way, it does feel like Brockermeyer is challenging Greene to be the player that he thinks he can be. Over the years, Georgia has sent so many great offensive linemen to the NFL. However, it has been a total crapshoot over what players in the trenches' games translates to the next level. Greene does need to step up.
Georgia's offensive line might remain its biggest issue, but so much of that falls back on coaching.