Georgia Tech defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe has been released from hospital after being taken off the field on a stretcher during the Yellow Jackets’ 45-24 defeat by No. 18 Tennessee in Atlanta.
Mbakwe was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for precautionary observation after a third-quarter collision at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday night. Georgia Tech said he was evaluated overnight and released.
The former Alabama player collided head-first with teammate Jordan Walker’s knee and lay motionless on the field for several minutes. He later gave a thumbs-up to supporters as he was carried away.
Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key said after the game that Mbakwe was talking and responsive, with movement in all his limbs, before being taken to hospital by ambulance.
Mbakwe subsequently posted on Instagram: “preciate all the messages and prayers. It’s a lot to respond to right now, but I’m good. #gojackets”. He later shared a photograph from hospital showing himself giving a thumbs-up.
Walker was also helped from the field after the collision and appeared unable to put weight on one leg. Key said his immediate priority after the match was to visit Mbakwe at Grady Hospital, which is about three miles from Georgia Tech’s stadium.
There has been no further medical diagnosis, and it remains unclear whether Mbakwe will be available for Georgia Tech’s next game.
The incident overshadowed Tennessee’s convincing victory, with the Volunteers pulling away to win 45-24. Mbakwe is in his first season with Georgia Tech after transferring from Alabama, where he made 22 appearances across two seasons as a cornerback, wide receiver and punt returner.
