Georgia lineman McClendon to honor Willock in Senior Bowl

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Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Georgia Bulldogs offensive lineman Warren McClendon (70) walks to the locker room following senior day festivities before their NCAA football game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Sanford Stadium, Saturday, November 26, 2022, in Athens, Ga. Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com)

Georgia offensive lineman Warren McClendon accepted his Senior Bowl invite, the event announced Monday morning.

The Senior Bowl assigned McClendon No. 77 to honor his late teammate Devin Willock, according to director Jim Nagy. McClendon was in the vehicle during the accident that killed Willock and UGA recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy on Jan. 15.

McClendon, a Brunswick native, declared for the draft Jan. 14. He was a pivotal part of the Bulldogs’ consecutive national championships, providing a steady hand at right tackle. He’ll appeal to teams with his experience and versatility. He could shift inside to guard at the next level.

The redshirt junior’s consistency was instrumental on an offensive line that surrendered only nine sacks over 15 contests. Once a four-star recruit, McClendon started 37 straight games at Georgia before missing the Peach Bowl due to an MCL injury suffered in the SEC Championship. He played in the national championship, though he didn’t start.

McClendon was one of two players officially added to the Senior Bowl roster Monday, joining Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker. Four former Bulldogs have accepted their Senior Bowl invites thus far: running back Kenny McIntosh, safety Chris Smith, kicker Jack Podlesny and McClendon. Six Georgia products participated in the Senior Bowl a year ago, when the team had a record 15 players drafted.

Georgia Tech edge rusher Keion White has also accepted his invitation to the Senior Bowl. White could become a day-two pick, commonly projected between the second and fourth rounds.