After a quick exit from the 2025 College Football Playoff, Georgia has made roster retention its top priority. Head coach Kirby Smart led a roster comprised of 54 percent first- or second-year players to a 12–2 record, an SEC championship, and a playoff berth. That said, not every player is willing to return under the same pay structure or in the same role.
One such player rumored to be unhappy with his role was running back Chauncey Bowens, who had reportedly been seeking more carries. However, Georgia received positive news on Monday. Bowens announced on Instagram that he will return for his third season with the program.
According to the 247Sports Composite, Bowens was a 4-star running back coming out of The Benjamin School in North Palm Beach, Florida.
Bowens missed two games in 2025 due to injury but still rushed 103 times for 526 yards (5.1 YPC) and 6 touchdowns. Over his career at Georgia, he has played in 16 games, rushed 119 times for 584 yards (4.9 YPC) and 6 touchdowns, according to Sports-Reference.
One thing Georgia would have missed greatly had Bowens transferred is how he finishes runs. There was not a tougher runner on Georgia’s roster in 2025. The way Bowens runs behind his pads reminded me a lot of another 33 who played for Georgia, Terrell Davis. Now I’m not predicting a HOF NFL career for Bowens; it’s too early for that. However, the talent he possesses is evident the second he sees a crease in the offensive line.
Now that Bowens is definitely in the fold for 2026, it’s time to focus on Nate Frazier’s future. Hopefully, both will return to Athens for the 2026 season. That two-headed beast is tough to beat in the SEC. I don’t see any team on Georgia’s schedule that has a duo who can match them.
