ATLANTA — Georgia junior defensive lineman Trenton Thompson left Saturday’s game at Georgia Tech with a leg injury, but was able to return to the game.

The injury happened late in the first quarter, on Georgia Tech’s second drive. Thompson returned on Georgia Tech’s fourth drive, which began midway through the second quarter.

Thompson is one of Georgia’s most talented players, though he’s started only three times this season, as part of Georgia’s very deep defensive line. Thompson, who tied for the team lead in sacks last season, doesn’t have any this season, but has 30 tackles, including three for a loss.

Thompson was down for about a minute and then walked very slowly off the field with head athletic trainer Ron Courson and two other medical staffers.

Georgia coach Kirby Smart came over and gave him a pat on the helmet as he came off and headed to the medical tent. Thompson remained in the tent for a few minutes before emerging and putting his helmet on.

But Thompson also, after a couple minutes riding an exercise bike, went to the bench and had his right knee wrapped in what looked like bubble wrap.

A few minutes later Thompson was seen taking the wrap off and running in place. He then put his helmet back on as if to prepare to return to the game.