Georgia’s football program is poised for a shift in its offensive line coaching staff as the Bulldogs prepare for the 2026 season. Stacy Searels, who has been the offensive line coach for the past four seasons, will transition into an analyst role. In his stead, Georgia will elevate Phil Rauscher, who recently served as the quality control coordinator, to the offensive line coach position.
Head coach Kirby Smart expressed gratitude for Searels’ contributions, highlighting his knowledge and leadership as key factors in the team’s offensive success. “His experience has been instrumental to our offensive production,” Smart stated. Searels will still play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s offensive strategies as an analyst.
Rauscher, who previously made $75,000 in his quality control role, comes highly regarded after coaching in the NFL, including stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and Minnesota Vikings. Under Rauscher’s guidance last season, Georgia’s rushing attack saw significant improvement, climbing from 15th to fourth in the SEC despite multiple changes in the offensive line lineup due to injuries.
“Phil has been a tremendous asset to our staff and players,” Smart remarked, emphasizing Rauscher’s work ethic and ability to connect with the team. Offensive lineman Micah Morris echoed this sentiment, noting the invaluable insights Rauscher brings from his experience coaching elite players in the NFL.
As Rauscher steps into his new role, he will inherit a blend of talent. While he faces the challenge of replacing starters Monroe Freeling and Micah Morris, he will benefit from returning players like Earnest Greene, Dontrell Glover, Juan Gaston, and Drew Bobo. Georgia has also secured a commitment from four-star offensive tackle Kelsey Adams for the 2027 recruiting class.
The offseason will also focus on Bobo’s recovery from a foot injury sustained in the last regular season game, raising questions about depth and readiness in the upcoming season. Searels was known for his strong recruiting efforts, and it will be interesting to see how Rauscher adapts to this aspect of the job as he continues to develop the offensive line.
This coaching change is part of a broader trend in Georgia’s program, reminiscent of the transition that occurred when Will Muschamp moved to an analyst role after the 2023 season. As the Bulldogs move forward following a successful 12-2 season and an SEC championship, the coaching shifts indicate the team’s commitment to evolving and strengthening their performance on the field.