Kentucky football loses 2 young defensive players to the transfer portal

Kentucky football’s defensive exodus continues with the loss of two more players to the transfer portal: defensive lineman Tommy Ziesmer and linebacker Jayvant Brown. These departures further deplete a defense already struggling to maintain depth and quality in a season defined by disappointment.

Tommy Ziesmer: Local Talent Lost

Ziesmer, a 2023 three-star recruit from Danville, Kentucky, was a key piece of the Wildcats’ in-state recruiting efforts. At 6'2" and 282 pounds, Ziesmer had potential as a rotational edge rusher. However, his on-field contributions were minimal, logging only two total tackles in each of his two seasons at Kentucky. While his stats—one sack in 2023 and none in 2024—may not seem like a significant loss, his departure continues to show Kentucky’s inability to retain and develop talent. Losing an in-state player like Ziesmer is particularly frustrating, as he represented a win in the recruiting battles against Louisville.

Jayvant Brown: Four-Star Potential Wasted

Jayvant Brown, a former four-star recruit out of powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas in Florida, was expected to bolster Kentucky’s linebacker corps. However, after appearing sparingly in two seasons, his departure is another black mark on Kentucky’s defensive development. Brown recorded just eight total tackles over his two years in Lexington, with no sacks, forced fumbles, or interceptions. For a player with his pedigree, the lack of production raises questions about how Kentucky is utilizing and coaching its talent.

A Defensive Crisis Looms

With Ziesmer and Brown now gone, the Wildcats face a precarious defensive situation. Kentucky’s defense, already thin at key positions, risks becoming outright barren if more players follow them into the portal.

This trend of attrition raises broader concerns about Mark Stoops’ ability to build a sustainable program. The Wildcats’ defense, once a point of pride, is rapidly unraveling. If Stoops and his staff cannot stabilize the roster and convince players to stay, the Wildcats will continue to suffer on the field. At this rate, Kentucky isn’t just losing games—it’s losing its future.

As always click here for all the latest transfer portal coming and going.