Georgia Tech defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe provides update after game injury
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 12: Jaylen Mbakwe #3 of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets is carted off the field during the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Bobby Dodd Stadium on September 12, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jonathan B
ATLANTA - Georgia Tech defensive back Jaylen Mbakwe provided a positive update following a scary third-quarter collision that resulted in him being stretchered off the field during the Yellow Jackets' 45-24 loss to No. 18 Tennessee on Saturday night.
What we know:
According to The Associated Press, Mbakwe collided head-first with Jordan Walker's knee, leaving him motionless on the field for several minutes before he gave fans a thumbs-up as he was wheeled away. Head coach Brent Key reported that Mbakwe was talking and responsive, with full movement in his extremities as he was transported by ambulance to nearby Grady Hospital.
In an update on his Instagram story, the defensive back stated, "preciate all the messages and prayers. It's a lot to respond to right now, but I'm good. #gojackets" He later posted a picture of him in the hospital onto to his Instagram story with a thumbs up.
Walker was also helped off the field, unable to place weight on his leg. Key stated postgame that his immediate focus was heading to the hospital to check on Mbakwe, a former Alabama transfer playing in his first season with Georgia Tech.
No. 18 Tennessee defeated Georgia Tech 45-24 at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday night.
This is Mbakwe's first season with Georgia Tech after transferring from Alabama, where he previously played in 22 games over two seasons as a cornerback, wide receiver, and punt returner.
What we don't know:
It remains unclear what specific medical diagnosis Mbakwe received at Grady Hospital, or whether he will miss upcoming games as he recovers.
The Source: Details in this report were compiled from an Associated Press report and Jaylen Mbakwe's Instagram story.