Georgia will already be without one of its best defensive players this spring in DT Trenton Thompson, and now, it looks like another top defender could miss some time, too.

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Linebacker Roquan Smith could miss some spring practice due to a recent surgical procedure on his pectoral muscle, according to DawgPost.com.

Smith missed some practice time last spring due to a wrist injury, but he was able to participate in a limited fashion. 2017 could be another spring setback for the talented defender.

The Dawgs’ top linebacker had a big sophomore season in 2016, leading the team with 95 tackles, including five for loss. He played in all of UGA’s 13 games, making 10 starts.

Spring practice isn’t a huge deal for the starting players. Sure, it’s a time when players can hone their game and make themselves better, but it’s more about the younger players getting some experience and the coaches building out the depth chart.

Exiting the season, all eyes were on Georgia’s offense this spring and the improvement of QB Jacob Eason. However, with Thompson out defensively and now Smith missing some time, the defense becomes somewhat of a bigger issue than previously thought.