Cryptic post from former Kentucky receiver hints at the open Wildcats coaching role

It was announced on December 3rd that Nebraska had hired away Kentucky's wide receiver coach, Daikiel Shorts Jr. The position is currently sitting open, and head coach Mark Stoops has only hinted about the future of that position, mentioning that for now, Bush Hamdan has had experience there and can help out in that room.

One of Kentucky area reporters, Chris Beasmore, sent out a tweet that said, "Should Kentucky give a call to Jeff Badet and Garrett Johnson for the Wide Receiver coaching position? #BBN" It wasn't long before Badet responded with this cryptic post:

In the replies to that post, someone said, "It's time." Badet replied, "It just might be Brodie." Which is a wild way to say that he is interested in the job or even just fanning the flames of rumors. There are no actual reports out there of Badet and Kentucky discussing the role, but it does seem as if he would entertain the idea.

Badet spent the years from 2013-2016 in Lexington and played at a high level. After leaving Kentucky via the transfer portal, Badet caught passes from Baker Mayfield in his Heisman trophy-winning season for the Oklahoma Sooners. Badet then went into the NFL, signing with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted rookie. He never quite made it in the NFL and bounced around in the XFL for a few years, giving the NFL another shot with the Washington Commanders. Most recently, he was on the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL, but in May was placed on the retired list.

One thing that Mark Stoops is looking for in replacing Shorts is a locker room influence. Someone who can help rebuild the culture and bring discipline to the program. According to an article by Collin Kennedy of 24/7 Sports, Badet is the perfect person for this. He writes, "Badet is known not only for his high-caliber play but his strong work ethic and incredible character. Seen as a top-tier personality and mentor, having him in the locker room is invaluable. Badet pushes his teammates, guides younger players and holds himself to a high standard as a person. It's all a product of who he is at his core."

Will Mark Stoops be interested in signing one of his former players as his newest wide receivers coach? That remains to be seen, but it does seem as if Badet may be looking for that opportunity.