We covered the offensive priorities here, but the defensive side of the ball needs just as much attention.
While the unit struggled down the stretch, there are foundational pieces that a new defensive coordinator would love to build around. And so some of the priorities should be locking up these 3 players.
Kentucky football's defense struggled but they have talent that needs to stay in Lexington
1. Ty Bryant (DB)
He will be a senior, but his experience is invaluable. Bryant led Kentucky in interceptions this year and racked up 12 tackles in the Louisville game while everyone else was missing assignments. You don't find that combination of experience, dedication, and production in the portal easily. Keeping the Kentucky native should be a big priority.
2. Steven Soles Jr. (EDGE)
The sophomore edge rusher is going to be a monster in a system that actually unleashes him. He had 3.5 sacks this year and lived in opponents' backfields at times. He has two more years of eligibility. Letting a pass rusher of his caliber walk out the door would be a disaster.
3. Andrew Purcell (DB)
Purcell was the best player in the 2025 class and managed to retain his redshirt eligibility after playing in just two games. The former 4-star DB will have a long list of suitors if he hits the portal. The new staff would be wise to lock him down immediately.
Again, the defense was bad last season, especially in the last 2 games of the season. With everything on the line, they gave up a combine 86 points to Vanderbilt and Florida. But that was as much scheme as it was talent. At a place like Kentucky, talent may come at a premium in year 1.
Whoever Kentucky hires will have their work cut out for them with the recruiting windows in December and January. This might be why missing a bowl game may help. Micah 7:7.