How Will Georgia Star Todd Gurley's Knee Injury Affect His NFL Draft Status?

How will Georgia star Todd Gurley's knee injury affect his NFL draft status? According to University of Georgia head coach Mark Richt, not very much at all.

On a recently radio spot Monday, Richt said that Gurley is still considered "a very high pick" in next year's draft, despite a debilitating injury that cost him the rest of this season on November 15.

Gurley rushed for over 900 yards and nine touchdowns in only six games this season, which was cut short after he was hit in the Bulldogs' 34-7 win over Auburn. Gurley was also suspended for four games by the NCAA for accepting money for autographed items.

"Todd is recovering very well," Richt told the Athens Banner-Herald. "It was very sad the day that it happened, but his spirits are good. He's working hard. He's going to be healthy before you know it."

Gurley underwent surgery for a torn ACL last week, according to the Banner-Herald.

The NCAA suspended Gurley for accepting $3,000 for autographed memorabilia over two years and upheld his suspension after he appealed it. He rushed for 138 yards on 29 carries against Auburn before getting hurt. It was his first game back from suspension.

Gurley was considered a front-runner for the Heisman Trophy going into this season after rushing for 989 yards and scoring 17 total touchdowns in 2013. He rushed for 1385 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2012.

He has not yet said publicily if he plans to forgoe his senior senior and enter the NFL draft.

The Bulldogs have gone 4-2 in Gurley's absence. They lost out for a spot in Saturday Southeastern Conference Championship game when Missouri defeated Arkansas 21-14 to clinch the East Divison crown.

Georgia finished the regular season ranked No.15 in the AP poll rankings and at 9-3 is still in line for a prestigious bowl game.