Georgia releases WR Rodarius 'Rara' Thomas in wake of arrest

Field Level Media|published: Thu 1st August, 12:37 2024

Georgia wide receiver Rara Thomas (5) makes a catch during warm ups before the start of a NCAA college football game against Ole Miss in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023.

Georgia dismissed senior wide receiver Rodarius "Rara" Thomas from the team following his arrest last week on a felony charge of second-degree cruelty to children and misdemeanor battery.

Georgia coach Kirby Smart confirmed Thomas' departure on Thursday.

"I met with Rara on Tuesday and had a chance to talk to him face to face, which was important, but I informed him that he could no longer be a part of this team, and he understood that," Smart told reporters.

Thomas was suspended July 26 when he was arrested by Athens-Clarke County Police. He was released Tuesday on a $3,500 bond.

This is the second time the Eufaula, Ala., native has been arrested on family violence charges.

In January 2023, Thomas faced charges of felony false imprisonment and misdemeanor battery after the University of Georgia police said he prevented a woman from leaving a dorm by blocking her exit and telling her she couldn't leave, and of causing bruises to the woman's body, according to ESPN, which reviewed an arrest warrant.

Thomas successfully completed a pretrial diversion program to have those charged dropped in March 2023. The Athletic reported that Thomas was held out of much of Georgia's spring practice as a disciplinary measure.

Thomas caught 23 passes for 383 yards and one touchdown in 11 games with the Bulldogs in 2023. He transferred to Georgia after two seasons at Mississippi State.

--Field Level Media