University of Georgia Athletics
Daijun Edwards: Moving in Silence
October 27, 2022 | Football
By Makenzy Wolford
"Real quiet, chill, I'm always watching," Daijun Edwards said when asked to describe himself.
On the field, Edwards is a powerhouse running back known for his toughness and ability to fight for first downs. During his past four performances against Kent State, Missouri, Auburn and Vanderbilt where he accumulated 254 yards on 45 carries and a team leading five rushing touchdowns, were anything but quiet.
Off the field, the man under the helmet is much more reserved than his running style would suggest. Though a powerful hard-hitting runner on the field, his personality is neither eccentric nor eye-catching. Edwards is a player that is frequently heard about but not heard from; however, his journey is not one to be ignored.
Raised in Norman Park, Ga., Edwards is the oldest of seven children, and though a seven-year gap separates him from his next oldest sibling, family was and remains an important factor in his life.
The University of Georgia was the first school to offer Edwards a scholarship in his freshman year of high school, but Florida State University, just 65 miles from home, was a tempting proposition. Edwards said the tradition of legendary Georgia running backs, along with his connection with Running Backs Coach Dell McGee, swayed his commitment to Georgia.
Despite the greater distance, he has been able to maintain a close relationship with his family. Edwards calls his parents at least every other day and looks forward to their presence in Athens whenever they visit.
"Yeah, my family comes to every game," Edwards said with a grin.
As fans from across the Bulldog Nation venture to Jacksonville for the annual Georgia-Florida game, Edwards will have his own cheering section in the bleachers. His mother, grandfather and one of his sisters will be in attendance for the SEC East clash.
The title of the team's leading rusher was not easily – or quickly – earned by the junior. Edwards' freshman season was overshadowed by COVID-19 and the talent of rising stars James Cook and Zamir White, who are both now on NFL rosters. The 2021 season brought more touches for Edwards but primarily when the game was well under control. He ended the season a national champion nonetheless.
With Cook and White's exit to the NFL, the 2022 season opened the door for Edwards, senior Kenny McIntosh and junior Kendall Milton to reimagine the Bulldog running game. Milton and McIntosh seemed the clear front runners on the depth chart through the first three games, but minor injuries created an opportunity for Edwards that he would not squander. He now leads the team in rushing with 334 yards on 59 carries.
Edwards is not flashy but his on-field production is no less impressive. He demands no spotlight but performs under pressure. His tenacity and dedication are seen, if not always heard. Daijun Edwards is moving in silence.
"Real quiet, chill, I'm always watching," Daijun Edwards said when asked to describe himself.
On the field, Edwards is a powerhouse running back known for his toughness and ability to fight for first downs. During his past four performances against Kent State, Missouri, Auburn and Vanderbilt where he accumulated 254 yards on 45 carries and a team leading five rushing touchdowns, were anything but quiet.
Off the field, the man under the helmet is much more reserved than his running style would suggest. Though a powerful hard-hitting runner on the field, his personality is neither eccentric nor eye-catching. Edwards is a player that is frequently heard about but not heard from; however, his journey is not one to be ignored.
Raised in Norman Park, Ga., Edwards is the oldest of seven children, and though a seven-year gap separates him from his next oldest sibling, family was and remains an important factor in his life.
The University of Georgia was the first school to offer Edwards a scholarship in his freshman year of high school, but Florida State University, just 65 miles from home, was a tempting proposition. Edwards said the tradition of legendary Georgia running backs, along with his connection with Running Backs Coach Dell McGee, swayed his commitment to Georgia.
Despite the greater distance, he has been able to maintain a close relationship with his family. Edwards calls his parents at least every other day and looks forward to their presence in Athens whenever they visit.
"Yeah, my family comes to every game," Edwards said with a grin.
As fans from across the Bulldog Nation venture to Jacksonville for the annual Georgia-Florida game, Edwards will have his own cheering section in the bleachers. His mother, grandfather and one of his sisters will be in attendance for the SEC East clash.
The title of the team's leading rusher was not easily – or quickly – earned by the junior. Edwards' freshman season was overshadowed by COVID-19 and the talent of rising stars James Cook and Zamir White, who are both now on NFL rosters. The 2021 season brought more touches for Edwards but primarily when the game was well under control. He ended the season a national champion nonetheless.
With Cook and White's exit to the NFL, the 2022 season opened the door for Edwards, senior Kenny McIntosh and junior Kendall Milton to reimagine the Bulldog running game. Milton and McIntosh seemed the clear front runners on the depth chart through the first three games, but minor injuries created an opportunity for Edwards that he would not squander. He now leads the team in rushing with 334 yards on 59 carries.
Edwards is not flashy but his on-field production is no less impressive. He demands no spotlight but performs under pressure. His tenacity and dedication are seen, if not always heard. Daijun Edwards is moving in silence.
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