Washaun Ealey given release to transfer from UGA

Running back Washaun Ealey has been given an unconditional release to transfer from Georgia, the school announced today. Ealey would have been a junior in the fall.

UGASports.com reports that Ealey may be considering transferring to Georgia Southern. Since the Eagles are in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Ealey could play in 2011. If he transfers to another Football Bowl Subdivision school, he would have to sit out a year per NCAA regulations.

From GeorgiaDogs.com:

“Washaun and I have had several conversations in recent weeks,” said Richt. “We both have come to the conclusion that a transfer to another institution would be in his best interest.”

A rising junior from Stillmore, Ga., Ealey has played in 21 games including nine starts during his two-year career at UGA and rushed for 1,528 yards (717 in 2009 and 811 in 2010).

Caleb King, a senior, will now likely enter fall camp as the no. 1 running back. Junior Carlton Thomas is the only other back on campus with game experience. Ken Malcome, who redshirted in 2010, and Isaiah Crowell, a highly touted recruit, will also compete to win the starting job.