LSU coach, top cornerback on what's ahead for UGA football transfer Arik Gilbert

HOOVER, Ala.—Georgia didn’t have any offensive or defensive players named to USA Today Network's preseason All-SEC team on Monday, but a new addition to its roster should be heard from in a big way in the years to come, according to his former coach.

LSU coach Ed Orgeron said Arik Gilbert, who played his freshman season for the Tigers, has big things ahead of him.

“I think he’s going to be an All-Pro tight end, an All-American and has a chance to be a first round draft choice,” Orgeron said Monday at SEC Media Days at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey Hotel.

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The Bulldogs are actually listing Gilbert as a wide receiver.

He could be an answer at the X wide receiver position where George Pickens played, but whose season is in question after sustaining a torn ACL this spring.

Gilbert came to LSU with huge expectations as a five-star prospect but opted out after eight games.

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The 6-foot-5, 248 pounder had 35 catches for 368 yards and two touchdowns last season for the Tigers.

Orgeron said after Gilbert opted out that he hoped he’d return to the Tigers.

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Gilbert committed to Florida but backed off that pledge and enrolled at Georgia in June.

“We wish Arik the best,” Orgeron said. “He’s an outstanding young man. His momma’s a great lady.”

LSU star cornerback Derrick Stingley, who goes up against the Tigers defense in practice said of Gilbert on Monday: “He’s an excellent player. I think he’s a mismatch for a lot of people that will go to guard him. I’m excited to see what he does this coming up year.”