Closing time: No more transfer portal visits until January, where does Kentucky stand?

With the transfer portal now taking a holiday break, with no on campus visits until January. Kentucky football finds itself in a solid position to round out its roster for 2024. The Wildcats have secured 13 commitments, earning a 10th overall ranking in the portal by 247Sports, narrowly edging out in-state rival Louisville at 11th. However, the job is far from done as the portal remains open until December 28 for players to come or leave, they just will not be able to visit other locations.

Here’s a breakdown of the players already committed to Kentucky:

• Sam Greene (OLB): A versatile edge rusher expected to bolster the Wildcats’ pass rush from USC.
• Landyn Watson (LB): Brings energy and a nose for the football to the linebacker corps from Marshall.
• Joshua Braun (OG): A powerful presence on the offensive line with SEC experience at Florida and Arkansas.
• Alexander Wollschlaeger (OG): Adds depth and size to the interior of the offensive front that is in rebuild mode.
• JJ Hester (WR): A dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field with height to make contested catches.
• Wallace Unamba (OL): A talented blocker with the potential to anchor the offensive line, especially run blocking.
• Zach Calzada (QB): A former SEC quarterback looking to lead Kentucky’s offense in his 7th year of college football.
• Henry Boyer (TE): A physical tight end who excels in blocking.
• Dante Dowdell (RB): A hard-nosed runner ready to make an impact in the backfield in short yardage situations.
• Kevis Thomas (DB): A developmental piece that should hopefully just be depth
• Kendrick Law (WR): Adds athleticism and run blocking from the WR spot.
• Jaden Williams (DT): A disruptive force on the defensive line that Kentucky needs to continue to produce.
• Evan Wibberley (C): A steady hand at center, crucial for offensive cohesion especially as Eli Cox graduating.

Kentucky’s top-10 portal ranking is a testament to Mark Stoops’ commitment to retooling the roster, particularly along the offensive line. Yet, with December 28 looming as the portal’s official closing date, there’s still room for last-minute additions to strengthen the squad further, or lose someone unexpected.

Wildcat fans have plenty to be optimistic about heading into the new year, but January will be key to sealing the deal on what’s shaping up to be another promising recruiting haul.