Georgia’s Figgins examines delaying shoulder surgery

Athens — Tight end Bruce Figgins knows he needs surgery to repair the torn labrum in his left shoulder. The question is when.

Figgins said Thursday that he plans to try to play against Tennessee and “see how I feel” afterward before deciding what’s next.

If he shuts down his season after the Tennessee game, he would qualify for a medical redshirt, giving him an extra year of eligibility. Another option is to keep playing beyond the Tennessee game and have the surgery after the season.

Both options remain on the table, Figgins said Thursday.

“No final decision on anything,” he said.

He said he was encouraged by this week’s practices that he could play effectively against Tennessee with the injured shoulder.

While Figgins said the surgery “definitely” is needed at some point, the possibility of a redshirt season might persuade him to have it now rather than later.

Georgia coach Mark Richt said the decision is Figgins’.

“I don’t want to try to predict that or say anything to make him feel I was trying to pressure him one way or the other,” Richt said. “I want him to do what is in his best interests.”

Ellerbe tries to speed recovery

Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe, sidelined with a knee injury on the third play of Saturday’s game, is getting extensive treatment this week to try to speed his recovery, Richt said.

“He’s doing everything he can to get ready [for Tennessee],” Richt said. “Hopefully, he’ll get better.”

Ellerbe suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament.

Bulldogs’ routine for open weekend

The Bulldogs will lift weights, but won’t practice, Friday.

“Then it’s up to them to rest this weekend and get ready for the long haul,” Richt said.

He noted Georgia will play six games — “another pretty good grind” — before its next open date.

Running back Knowshon Moreno said the Bulldogs have moved on from Saturday’s 41-30 loss.

“Everyone is just working now to get stronger and healthy this off week,” he said.