With Monroe Freeling heading to the NFL Draft, Georgia finds itself staring down a critical question: who’s going to step in and protect Gunner Stockton’s blindside in 2026?
That’s where TyQuez Richardson enters the picture. The Bulldogs dipped into the Transfer Portal and pulled in the 6'5", 330-pound offensive tackle from Alabama A&M.
A Georgia native out of Mays High School in Atlanta, Richardson brings starting experience and a physical frame that fits the SEC mold. He may not be the flashiest name in the portal-his three-star transfer rating from 247Sports reflects that-but he’s the kind of player who could push for immediate playing time in Athens.
From SWAC to SEC: A Big Jump, But a Valuable One
Richardson started 12 games at Alabama A&M, anchoring the offensive line and gaining valuable reps at tackle. Now, let’s be clear-there’s a big difference between handling SWAC pass rushers and going toe-to-toe with SEC edge talent every Saturday.
But experience matters, especially in the trenches. Richardson has logged real college snaps, and that’s something you can’t teach.
He’s not walking into a guaranteed starting spot, but he’s walking into a wide-open opportunity. Georgia’s offensive line room is loaded with talent, but it’s also in a bit of flux with Freeling gone. That opens the door for a player like Richardson to come in, compete, and potentially earn a role-especially if he can hold his own during spring ball.
More Than Just Depth-Richardson Brings Poise
Even if Richardson doesn’t win the starting left tackle job outright, his presence adds more than just depth. For a coaching staff led by Kirby Smart and new offensive line coach Phil Rauscher, having a veteran in the room brings a level of stability. That matters, especially when you’re mixing in younger players who may be seeing their first meaningful snaps.
A guy who’s been through the weekly grind of college football, even at a different level, can help set the tone in the meeting room, on the practice field, and in the locker room. That kind of leadership-quiet or vocal-often flies under the radar but pays dividends over the course of a season.
What Comes Next for Georgia’s Left Tackle Spot?
Don’t be surprised if Georgia experiments with different combinations this spring. Juan Gaston, an elite sophomore, could get a look at left tackle. The Bulldogs have options, and that’s exactly what you want when trying to solidify one of the most important positions on the field.
The reality is, you can never have too many capable offensive linemen in the SEC. Injuries happen.
Matchups vary. And competition drives improvement.
Richardson may not be the final answer at left tackle, but he gives Georgia another strong piece to work with as they begin shaping the 2026 offensive line.
And in a conference where games are often won or lost in the trenches, that kind of addition can quietly become one of the most important moves of the offseason.