by Kyle
One of the key position groups that has helped UK turn the corner from SEC doormat to a respectable team is the linebacker position. From Wesley Woodyard to Braxton Kelly, from Micah Johnson to Sam Maxwell, Kentucky’s linebacker play has been amongst the best in the SEC for years. Hoping to continue that tradition, several linebacker prospects were brought in during the 2010 recruiting season:
FARRINGTON HUGUENIN – COLUMBIA, SC
6’4 235
Huguenin was one of those players that popped up out of nowhere. Joker had just commented on going after higher rated recruits, and his verbal came in shortly thereafter. When Huguenin committed to Kentucky he was lightly regarded by recruiting sites despite a pretty impressive list of schools that had showed interest, and there was/is rampant speculation about potential academic issues that could have scared away home state South Carolina and Clemson. Kentucky jumped in and grabbed this jumbo athlete making up for the loss of DT Brandon Dunn to Louisville. Huguenin is considered a defensive end prospect by most sites, but the official UKAA site has him listed as a linebacker, so it’s likely he’ll start his career there. He shows a great burst to the ball and his lateral quickness is better than some running backs. If he makes it to campus this fall, he could definitely make an impact wherever he lines up.
JABARI JOHNSON – STONE MOUNTAIN, GA
6’2 220
Johnson brings speed and aggressiveness to a Kentucky defense that was beat up on by opponents last season. He has the size and athleticism to play any of the three linebacker positions, and his versatility might help him find his way into the rotation as a true freshman. Johnson is an integral part of the newly established Stephenson pipeline.
MALCOLM McDUFFEN – HOPKINSVILLE, KY
6’3 205
Just as some fans where starting to complain that there was not a single Kentuckian in the 2010 class, McDuffen’s verbal made news circles. He comes out of Hopkinsville with the athleticism to play linebacker, defensive end, and quarterback for his high school team. McDuffen will need to add some weight to make the linebacker rotation, but his speed and agility will help offset the loss of athletic playmaker Sam Maxwell.
TIM PATTERSON – LOUISVILLE, KY
6’4 220
Patterson may eventually find himself along the defensive line, but for now he’s listed as a linebacker. He has great size for someone his age and shows the ability to diagnose plays and fill running lanes well for someone his age. He is probably the most surprising member of the 2010 class, as most people had assumed he would choose hometown Louisville over Kentucky until he announced his decision. There are reportedly still some academic issues to be worked out before he can play next season, but expect Patterson to make an early impact whenever he sees the field.
AVERY WILLIAMSON – MILAN, TN
6’1 220
One of Kentucky’s “under the radar” recruits was Avery Williamson. He doesn’t play one of the glamour positions, so he’s easy to overlook. Williamson will come to Lexington as one of the most physically ready to play freshmen in Kentucky’s class, and is reportedly stronger than several of the current UK linebackers. Williamson could potentially fit into any of the three linebacker spots, but seems to be the best fit at middle linebacker. Micah Johnson’s graduation leaves a gaping hole to be filled and Williamson should have an early opportunity to contribute on defense and special teams.
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