Jarvis Jones Injury: Georgia coach Mark Richt optimistic that linebacker will play vs. Florida

Georgia Bulldogs coach Mark Richt expressed optimism Sunday that star outside linebacker Jarvis Jones would be able to suit up this weekend in their battle for SEC East supremacy against the No. 2 Florida Gators in Jacksonville.

Richt did not say that Jones would play for sure, but admitted that there's a "very good chance" that he will (via The Telegraph):

"My hope's that he'll be able to practice as early as Monday, is what I hope. Whether or not that happens, I'm not sure," Richt said. "He's definitely making progress, and I think there's a very good chance he'll play. But again, if he's not healthy enough to go then we're not gonna do it. But I think there's a good chance he will."

Jones sat out No. 10 Georgia's tougher-than-expected 29-24 win over the Kentucky Wildcats this past weekend with a sprained ankle. Immediately following the game, Richt did not sound confident that Jones would be ready, but that prognosis has obviously changed.

Jones' return will be a boost for the Bulldogs against Florida, as Georgia will likely be without defensive end Abry Jones, who is also battling an ankle injury.

For the season, Jones has racked up 37 tackles in five games. He currently leads the team with 5.5 sacks.