Georgia Tech LT Gardner to have surgery

Nov 4, 2008 - 9:57 PM ATLANTA (Ticker) -- The career of Georgia Tech left tackle Andrew Gardner, one of the most durable players in the country, is over.

Gardner, who has played all season with a torn labrum in his left shoulder, has opted to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery, Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson announced Tuesday.

Despite the tear, Gardner had played in 48 consecutive games for the Yellow Jackets, the longest current streak in the Football Bowl Subdivision. But he aggravated the injury against Virginia on October 25 and battled through last week's contest against Florida State.

"After talking with his family, they felt this was the right thing to do," Johnson said. "We are very supportive of him and understand his decision completely. It's about a five-month rehab period and I wish him the best in his rehab and desire to play football in the future."

Gardner was one of the anchors on an offensive line that has helped Georgia Tech lead the Atlantic Coast Conference in rushing at 242.3 yards per game.

Georgia Tech (7-2) has a one-half game lead over Miami and Virginia in the ACC's Coastal Division.