Decision made on Patrick, Smith

Innocent.

That was the conclusion of athletic director Greg McGarity regarding the investigation into whether linebackers Natrez Patrick and Roquan Smith smoked marijuana in the hours that followed the Bulldogs loss to Vanderbilt.

“After receiving an incident report last week, we determined that neither Roquan Smith nor Natrez Patrick had violated any Athletic Association rules that would require suspension,” McGarity told reporters in a statement. “This included drug testing, which was negative for both student-athletes.”

Head coach Kirby Smart had this say during Monday's weekly press conference.

"We brought the matter to a conclusion today. I’m happy for these two young men that they can move on to football and not deal with the distractions," Smart said. "I will say that on the field both of these young men have been exemplary as leaders, especially for sophomore. I think I’ve mentioned before that Natrez and Roquan have just started to be vocal since the Ole Miss game, which is tough when you’re a sophomore because you’re near the bottom half of the leadership. But those kids have done that and done a good job of being leaders."

On Oct. 15, both Bulldog players were investigated by University police after a residence hall monitor reported smelling marijuana emanating from the room of Patrick.

Although neither player was arrested, the police report stated that Patrick admitted to stashing marijuana in a hidden compartment inside a can of Arizona Strawberry tea.

After a subsequent search, police found an air filter device used to mask the smell of marijuana, several lighters and rolled up towels against the door.

However, no actual marijuana was discovered.

“Since November 2015, I have dedicated myself to moving forward. I'm blessed to have done that despite hurdles I've had to clear,” Patrick said. “This incident was simply another hurdle and I was confident I would successfully clear it. I'll continue to move forward and I'm anxious to play on Saturday.”

Patrick was arrested a year ago along with former Bulldog Chauncey Rivers for possession of marijuana. Patrick was also present when Rivers was arrested a second time, but he was not charged.

Smith was listed on the police report as a guest to Patrick’s room.

“As a student at the University of Georgia and a member of the football team, I take this opportunity very seriously,” Smith said. “I have followed the rules of the Athletic Association and I am happy this situation has been rightfully resolved. I look forward to representing my school and my team on Saturday in Jacksonville.”