Holton transfers to Valdosta State

Former Georgia Tech safety Fred Holton has transferred to Valdosta State. He enrolled Tuesday, according to a school spokesman. Coach Paul Johnson dismissed Holton from the team Aug. 2 for violations of team rules.

In dropping down to Division II, Holton can play immediately and has two years of eligibility remaining. He could apply for a third year through a medical hardship waiver, having missed all of the 2011 and 2012 seasons with injuries suffered in preseason camp.

Valdosta State is the defending Division II national champion. The Blazers are coached by David Dean, a former Tech wide receiver. The school is about an hour’s drive from Holton’s hometown of Thomasville.