Richard LeCounte remains committed despite injury and uncertainty

A common theme of this college football season has been players opting to sit out and prepare for the NFL Draft.

For Richard LeCounte, that is not the case.

LeCounte was involved in a motor vehicle accident on Halloween night just hours after Georgia defeated Kentucky 14-3. He totaled a career-best 13 tackles in that game and recorded a fumble recovery. 

At the time of the accident, it was reported that he was riding a dirtbike and was hit by two cars.

“He’s lucky to be alive,” LeCounte’s mother said.

Most of his injuries were reported to be upper body and not life-threatening. That is great news for LeCounte and the Georgia football program.

Nobody would blame LeCounte for choosing to sit out the rest of his senior season to heal and prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, but he is committed to getting back out on the field as a Georgia Bulldog. 

Life is about more than just football, and incidents like these are great reminders of that.

Regardless, LeCounte announced in a tweet on Tuesday night what his intentions are. 

As long as he is healthy and ready, Georgia fans and the coaching staff will welcome him back with open arms. 

Not only is he a leader on this defense and team, LeCounte was also having a solid senior season, so his eagerness to get back is not a surprise. 

He has recorded 26 total tackles and is tied with Eric Stokes for a team-leading three interceptions this season. He was on pace to have a career-year in terms of interceptions. 

Despite his statement and attitude, LeCounte will not be back for Georgia’s matchup against Mississippi State.

“He’s making his way back to more normalcy. Whether or not he makes it back or not will depend on how long the season goes,” Kirby Smart said. 

To be frank, it is unknown whether or not he will don the red and black again, especially since this particular season is not guaranteed. Georgia’s schedule has already been altered due to COVID, and that can happen again art any moment.

What is important is that LeCounte is healing and in good spirits.