ATHENS, Ga., May 14 (UPI) -- Eight more Georgia football players were declared ineligible Wednesday after the school determined they sold their Southeastern Conference championship rings.
The latest group includes cornerbacks Kenny Bailey, Bruce Thornton and Tim Jennings, receivers Michael Johnson and Fred Gibson, running back Trey Young, linebacker Tony Taylor and nose tackle Darrius Swain.
They joined freshman defensive tackle Kedric Golston, who already was cited by the school.
"As I have said, it's very disappointing," Coach Mark Richt said. "I think as a football program and (Georgia) Athletic Association, we are now committed to doing a better job of educating our student-athletes on the worth of achievement awards which far transcends monetary value."
The school's athletic association has arranged to recover the rings to prevent future sales. The school's compliance office is working with the NCAA to determine repayment procedures so the players can seek restoration of their eligibility.
Richt also announced four unrelated suspensions for violation of team rules. Defensive back B.J. Fields, fullback Chris Hickman and linebacker Jamario Smith were suspended one game while defensive back-kick returner Tyson Browning received a three-game ban.
