Two Georgia football players were in trouble Wednesday night, including a linebacker expected to be a anchor on the defense this fall.
Chris Cole and Darren Ikinnagbon were arrested by the Athens-Clarke County Police Department on driving-related charges. Inside linebacker Cole and outside linebacker Iginabong both face multiple misdemeanor charges, including reckless driving.
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Clark County Jail records show Cole was booked at 9:59 p.m., and Iginabong was booked about a half-hour later at 10:27 p.m. The two were released about 30 minutes after being registered on February 18.
Cole, who was also charged with speeding, was released on $26 bail. Ikinnagbon received additional tickets for following too closely and speeding and posted a $39 bond before leaving.
“We are aware of the allegations and are actively gathering additional information,” Georgia associate athletic director Steven Drummond said, according to the Athens Banner-Herald. “As this is an ongoing legal matter, we will not provide further comment at this time.”
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Another off-site driving incident raises familiar concerns in Georgia
The arrests add to a disturbing trend in Athens. Georgia has dealt with a number of driving-related accidents involving players over the past few years, with reckless driving charges popping up frequently. became a familiar title.
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January 1, 2026; New Orleans, LA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart arrives prior to the 2026 Sugar Bowl and College Football Playoff quarterfinal game against the Mississippi Rebels at Caesars Dome. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Cole is coming off a productive 2025 season and should be the cornerstone of the Bulldogs’ defense moving forward. He totaled 59 tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks on the year. Ikinnagbon is still in the early stages of his college career. The true freshman appeared in five games last season, mostly as a backup. His role is expected to expand through 2026.
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In 2025 alone, three other Georgia players, Nitro Tuggle, Nyer Daniels and Marques Easley, were arrested on driving charges. All three eventually entered the transfer portal and are no longer part of the program.
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Post-Georgia football faces a major blow after two key players were arrested.