Georgia freshman DB forced to give up football

ATHENS -- Georgia freshman cornerback Rico Johnson will have to give up football because of a neurological condition.<br /> <br /> The school announced Thursday that Johnson had problems in practice this week and underwent a medical evaluation. Doctors found that Johnson risked a permanent spinal cord injury if he continued to play contact sports.<br /> <br /> Head trainer Ron Courson says it's fortunate the condition was discovered before Johnson sustained a "possible catastrophic injury," and that he still should be able to have "a normal life."<br /> <br /> Georgia coach Mark Richt says Johnson will remain on scholarship through his graduation. The 5-foot-11, 174-pounder played in Georgia's first four games and was credited with five tackles.<br /> <br /> The 13th-ranked Bulldogs (3-1, 1-1 Southeastern Conference) face Vanderbilt on Saturday.

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