Georgia Tech guard Parker Braun, probably the Yellow Jackets’ best player on the 2018 team, will leave as a grad transfer, a person familiar with the situation confirmed, adding that “a variety of factors” led to his decision and that Braun gave it considerable thought.
Braun’s decision was first reported by Rivals earlier Friday.
Braun, a three-year starter who had played 32 consecutive games, was named first-team All-ACC this past season after being named second-team All-ACC as a sophomore. Since earning a spot in the starting lineup in the middle of the 2016 season, Braun was an anchor on the line, a forceful combination of agility, unrelenting effort and power. He easily qualifies as one of the top two or three offensive linemen in former coach Paul Johnson’s 11-season tenure.
Having started 32 consecutive games and been an energy-giving leader on the offensive line, he leaves a considerable void for new coach Geoff Collins to fill on the line. The Jackets have four returning linemen who started six or more games in the 2018 season – centers Kenny Cooper and Jahaziel Lee, offensive tackle Zach Quinney and guard Connor Hansen – although the change in scheme may reduce the significance of that experience. Tech also received a grad transfer, Jared Southers from Vanderbilt, who is expected to play offensive tackle.
Braun will have one year of eligibility remaining and, as a grad transfer, is unrestricted in where he can transfer.
That Braun will be eligible to leave as a grad transfer is fairly remarkable, as he is only in his third academic year. Braun is majoring in literature, media and communication and has twice been named to the ACC’s academic honor roll.
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