Just days after Kentucky wrapped its Spring Showcase, the Wildcats are taking more hits up front.
Offensive lineman Daniel Mincey has officially entered the transfer portal, joining defensive lineman Kendrick Gilbert, who also decided to leave the program this week. The timing — just before the portal officially opens — only adds to the roster flux that’s been building since the close of spring camp.
Yeah… it’s been that kind of offseason.
🧱 Daniel Mincey — A loss on the offensive line
Mincey, a 6-foot-4, 290-pound interior lineman from Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, came to Kentucky as a three-star recruit. He was seen as a developmental piece with upside, part of the 2023 signing class that initially showed promise.
Now, just over a year later, Mincey is headed for the portal before seeing meaningful snaps in a Wildcat uniform.
His departure leaves Kentucky thinner in the trenches, particularly as the team works to build continuity and depth on the offensive line following an uneven 2023 campaign.
💢 Kendrick Gilbert — Another hit on the defensive front
On the defensive side, Kendrick Gilbert’s exit may sting even more.
Originally committed to Purdue, the No. 3 prospect out of Indiana was flipped to Kentucky after Jeff Brohm’s move to Louisville. Gilbert redshirted his freshman year and entered 2024 poised to break out.
But weight maintenance issues and inconsistent performance held him back. Despite Kentucky’s limited D-line depth, he saw just 53 defensive snaps as a redshirt freshman. After participating in spring practice, Gilbert chose to move on rather than fight for reps this fall.
📉 2023 class taking a big hit
With Gilbert and Mincey entering the portal, Kentucky’s 2023 recruiting class continues to unravel. Just two years removed from National Signing Day, only 10 of the original 30 commitments remain with the program — and that includes transfer portal additions.
What looked like a strong class on paper is now nearly unrecognizable.
⏳ Portal Chaos Incoming
While the transfer portal officially opens Wednesday, the leaks are already coming in — and fast. More names could be on the way as players explore options and coaches retool rosters ahead of the 2025 season.
Stay tuned to WBN for the latest portal updates as Kentucky tries to restock, rebuild, and respond.