Mark Stoops announced Monday that two of his team's defensive starters will be out for the rest of the year after suffering injuries in the blowout win over Florida Saturday night.
USC transfer Sam Greene and safety Jordan Lovett are both done for the year.
“I’m really disappointed for these young men and our team, but unfortunately, they will be out the rest of the year,” Stoops shared.
The loss of Greene is a significant blow to the defensive front. After the win against Auburn last week, Stoops praised his impact.
“He’s another great person, and I just love his energy. I love the way he works, and he’s very passionate. And so he’s definitely a guy that we like to have here. He’s a great fit.”
Greene had 25 tackles, 3 TFLs, a sack, and 4 QB hurries and was second on the team in pressures. His presence along the line will definitely be missed.
Mark Stoops announces key injury updates
- Alex Afari was also injured in the Florida game. Stoops does not anticipate the linebacker will return for the Tennessee Tech game but may only miss a week.
- Tavion Gadson was absent against Florida, but he should be back for the final home game of the season.
- DJ Waller was close to returning last Saturday, but is now able to use a redshirt this year to preserve a season of eligibility if he and the team determine that's the best path.
The loss of Jordan Lovett, a multi-year starter and a key voice in the secondary, is just as painful. His production will be difficult to replace, as he racked up 63 tackles in 2024, 62 tackles in 2022, and 44 tackles this season. Over his productive career, he also added 6 interceptions.
Now some more guys will have to step it up, just like we have seen on the offensive side of the ball.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion