The Kentucky Wildcats' offensive line depth has taken a hit as backup center Ben Christman has entered the transfer portal. Christman, a former four-star recruit from Ohio, was one of the most highly touted offensive linemen in his class. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 325 pounds, he was the top-rated offensive lineman in Ohio during his senior year and originally committed to Ohio State. Follow along with all transfer action by clicking here.
After redshirting during his first season with the Buckeyes and playing in just one game in his second, Christman transferred to Kentucky, hoping to make an impact. Unfortunately, his 2023 season was wiped out due to a knee injury, and now, Christman is moving on again.
I have decided to put my name into the transfer portal as a graduate transfer with two years eligibility remaining.
— Ben Christman (@BenChristman_) December 6, 2024
Thank you to all of my teammates, coaches and staff at UK for 2 seasons as a part of the Big Blue Nation. pic.twitter.com/RmAwLxabFM
A Shallow Depth Chart at Center
The timing of Christman’s departure leaves Kentucky dangerously thin at center. With veteran starter Eli Cox graduating, the Wildcats are left with only redshirt freshman Koby Keenum as the lone true center on the roster. Keenum, while talented, is still young and untested, raising concerns about whether he can step into such a pivotal role effectively in the SEC.
Jager Burton, who began 2023 as Kentucky's starting center before being reassigned to guard, does provide another option. However, Burton struggled at center early in the season, prompting his move back to guard, and that is probably where he will stay.
Former Ohio State IOL Ben Christman is the 13th Kentucky Wildcat to enter the transfer portal this week.
— Nick Roush (@RoushKSR) December 6, 2024
READ: https://t.co/JpDyaLyFFj pic.twitter.com/Feq7wPeMQp
What’s Next for Kentucky?
The Wildcats may need to look to the transfer portal themselves to bolster their offensive line depth, particularly at center. Head coach Mark Stoops has emphasized the importance of having a strong and cohesive offensive line to execute Kentucky’s run-heavy system. With the loss of two centers in Christman and Cox, reinforcements are not just a luxury—they’re a necessity.
Beyond the portal, the Wildcats might also consider reshuffling their existing roster. While Burton’s experience at the position provides some flexibility, the staff will need to weigh whether weakening the guard position is worth the trade-off given how poor he performed at Center already.
Kentucky’s "Big Blue Wall" has been a source of pride for years, both with fans and coaches, but with Christman gone and key positions up in the air, it’s clear this unit will need significant attention heading into the 2024 season.