Some tough news to share out of Athens as Georgia’s star receiver has suffered a serious knee injury in camp.

Pickens suffered an ACL injury that will require surgery following a non-contact play at practice.

Here is the statement issued by Georgia on Wednesday regarding Pickens’ injury:

George Pickens, a junior wide receiver from Hoover, AL, injured his right knee in spring football practice on a non-contact play on Tuesday afternoon. MRI confirmed an injury to his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which will require surgery. He has already started his pre-op rehabilitation program under the supervision of the UGAAA sports medicine staff and a full recovery is anticipated.

“The good news is that the MRI showed it to be an isolated injury with no other structures involved,” said UGA head coach Kirby Smart. “George is a hard worker. I know he will bring the same work ethic to rehab that he shows in practice every day.”

Pickens finished last season with 36 catches (tied for the team lead) for 513 yards (second on the team) and a team-high six touchdown receptions. He started all 10 games for the Bulldogs last season and looks to be a preseason Fred Biletnikoff Award candidate heading into his junior season in Athens.

Pickens was also named to the Coaches’ Freshman All-SEC Team and was co-winner of the Offensive Newcomer of the Year award during his first season at Georgia.