Rochester cleared to play

Freshman defensive lineman Julian Rochester will not be suspended after all, head coach Kirby Smart confirmed during Monday’s press conference.

“Why wouldn’t he?” Smart said when asked. “I don’t know why he wouldn’t. Julian’s doing great.”

Smart’s comments were the first words of resolution regarding the former McEachern standout who was arrested in the spring and charged with discharging a weapon (a BB gun) on campus and destruction of property.

According to the Atlanta-Constitution, Rochester successfully completed a pre-trial intervention program as prescribed the by the athletic association and the university.

Athletic director Greg McGarity confirmed that Rochester will not miss any games.

“Julian's done everything we've asked Julian to do,” Smart said. “He's done a great job for us and we're excited about where Julian is. I continue to answer that question over and over and over. Julian's done a great job.”

Rochester (315 pounds) is listed as one of two backups to DaQuan Hawkins-Muckle at defensive end.