Richard LeCounte Declares for the NFL Draft

Photo: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Richard LeCounte is heading to the NFL Draft this April as the senior safety chose to forego a free year of eligibility to test the waters in the NFL. LeCounte, the senior from Riceboro, Georgia, has been the spark on the backend for the Dawgs secondary.

LeCounte’s senior year did not go as he may have wanted it to, as shortly following the win on the road against Kentucky, LeCounte was injured in a dirt bike accident after the team’s return to Athens. Richard played in just six games this season while starting in five of those.

The Liberty County alumni ceiling was always in Georgia fans’ minds as he started his career as a true freshman in 2017. LeCounte would appear in 10 games his freshman season as he learned behind veteran starter Dominick Sanders.

Following Sanders’ departure, LeCounte would start in 13 of 14 games in 2018 as a sophomore. LeCounte was quickly thrust into a leadership position as a regular starter in his sophomore season. He would lead all Bulldog defenders in tackles (74) with just one interception.

A significant critique of the young safety going into his junior season was the inconsistent tackling. LeCounte would often go for the big hit, or also known as the “hit stick.” Coach Smart went as far as to challenge his young star publicly to step up as a playmaker.

Richard would go on record four interceptions, 64 tackles, and two forced fumbles. A big step forward in his junior season as his playmaking ability was on display for much of the season. Following a prosperous year of growth, the attraction towards the NFL grew. Like the leader that Richard is, he would opt to return for his junior in an attempt to win a championship.

Although an injury would sideline the senior playmaker, LeCounte started the season off fast with three interceptions and 26 tackles. LeCounte would play the Peach Bowl’s final snap after the dirt bike accident as Georgia went into a prevent defense.

That one snap was enough for Richard LeCounte to gain closure over his career in Athens as he looks forward to a bright career in the NFL.