Former Georgia lineman Chris Barnes has announced his intention to transfer to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, per his Facebook page.

/Dawgnation)

Barnes was a member of the 2016 recruiting class but didn’t play for the Bulldogs until last October against Missouri. He started his career as an offensive lineman but was expected to make the switch to defense.

The move to Chattanooga should ensure playing time for Barnes, who likely wouldn’t have seen the field at UGA in 2018.

It’s a smart career move for a player who could have aspirations of playing professionally. On the other side of the coin, the Bulldogs have built up enough depth over the last two recruiting classes to be able to withstand this loss.

Georgia opens the 2018 season against Austin Peay on Sept. 1.