Kentucky football reportedly in prime position to land former 4 star WR

According to Rivals and Kentucky insider Jeff Drummond, the Wildcats are reportedly in prime position to land wide receiver JJ Hester, a transfer from Oklahoma. The 6’4, 202-pound receiver is known for his size and potential as a red-zone target, which could bring much-needed depth and versatility to Kentucky’s wide receiver room.

Hester, a former four-star recruit ranked among the top 50 wide receivers by 247Sports, has shown flashes of promise throughout his college career. His most productive season came in 2024 at Oklahoma, where he recorded 14 receptions for 315 yards and a touchdown. Notably, Hester averaged an impressive 22.5 yards per catch, showcasing his ability to stretch the field with big plays. His longest reception of the season was a 90-yard touchdown, a testament to his deep-threat capability.

While Hester’s college production has been limited—due in part to competition for playing time—his high school scouting reports highlighted his upside. Gabe Brooks of 247Sports noted Hester’s testing numbers, including a 4.65-second 40-yard dash, a 4.13-second shuttle, and a 36.5-inch vertical. Brooks described him as having "a ton of potential as a red-zone ball-winner," while also pointing out areas for improvement, such as consistency in high-pointing the ball and lateral explosiveness.

With Kentucky’s wide receiver group experiencing significant turnover in recent seasons, Hester’s size and potential could make him an intriguing addition. According to Rivals’ Justin Rowland, Kentucky is in position to bring in a big bodied deep threat, something similar to how Dane Key played. Though he has nowhere near the production of Key, the physicals are there.

It’s important to emphasize that nothing is official yet, as Hester’s commitment has not been publicly announced. However, the buzz from Drummond and Rowland suggests that Kentucky is well-positioned to secure his services. If Hester does choose the Wildcats, he could be a key piece in revitalizing an offense that has struggled to find consistency in the passing game in recent years.

For now, Kentucky fans will have to wait and see if this reported interest turns into a reality. Keep up with all the transfer portal news by clicking here.