Athens — Georgia tight end NaDerris Ward has requested a release from his scholarship and, at the moment, intends to transfer at the end of the semester, according to university spokesman Claude Felton

It is not known where the sophomore tight end will transfer. But in all likelihood it will be closer to his home in Oakland, Calif. Ward is the third hit taken by the tight end group in two months.

First tight end coach Dave Johnson left for West Virginia. Then recruit Dwayne Allen changed his commitment and went with Clemson over Georgia on Signing Day. And now Ward.

Coach Mark Richt said he will discuss Ward's decision on Wednesday.

The Bulldogs have a senior, Tripp Chandler, starting at tight end. Sophomore Bruce Figgins played throughout his true freshman season.

Georgia signed one tight end, Kennesaw Mountain's Bryce Ros, who could be moved to defensive end. Aron White may play tight end, but as of the first week of February, he was still hovering around the 220-229-pound range and appears to be a specialized tight end/wide receiver.

Ward's career at Georgia never took off due to injuries. He came to Georgia with a preexisting shoulder injury. He had surgery that required him to redshirt his freshman year and he never rounded into shape. He played in four games last season for Georgia. But the Bulldogs fare more frequently went with Figgins, a true freshman, over Ward last season. Ward did not return several phone calls.

Georgia is scheduled to begin spring practice March 3.