ATHENS — Georgia linebacker Marcus Washington, who started six games for the Bulldogs in 2007, said Monday he will undergo shoulder surgery and expects to miss the 2008 season.

Washington, a senior, said he will undergo surgery on his left shoulder in the next couple of weeks, with a recovery time estimated at six months.

"I think it would be in my best interest to go ahead and get it fixed," Washington said.

Washington played in 11 games last season and started six. He missed two games after his shoulder popped out against Ole Miss, and finished with 40 tackles and 2.5 sacks.

He reinjured the shoulder on March 7 when his arm was extended and a teammate fell on top of it.

Defensive coordinator Willie Martinez called the injury "a real blow" to the Bulldogs. Coach Mark Richt said the Bulldogs will work with linebackers Akeem Dent, Darryl Gamble and Darius Dewberry to help make up for Washington’s absence.