As spring practice wraps up in Lexington, the Kentucky football roster is undergoing another round of reshuffling—this time with a heavy focus on the trenches. Six of the seven Wildcats entering the transfer portal this spring are linemen, highlighting a massive shake-up up front.
But while Kentucky loses key bodies, the staff is already working on replenishing the depth chart—starting with a familiar name coming back home.
Lorenzo Cowan reunites With Kentucky
The Wildcats have secured a commitment from USC EDGE transfer Lorenzo Cowan, a one-time Kentucky commit who flipped to the Trojans in high school. Now, after a season on the West Coast, he’s heading back east to suit up in the SEC.
Cowan brings speed, length, and pass-rush potential, giving Brad White a new tool on the edge. His return feels like a full-circle moment and comes at a time when Kentucky needs juice in its defensive front seven.
Hardley Gilmore IV heads back to Lexington
Hardley Gilmore IV, a four-star wide receiver from the Class of 2024, is also rejoining the Wildcats after a short stint at Nebraska. Gilmore was dismissed from the Cornhuskers’ program earlier this month—though sources clarified it was not related to any criminal matter.
Now, he’ll suit back up for Kentucky, where fans had high hopes for his breakout year. As a freshman, he flashed big-play ability with six catches, 153 yards, and a touchdown. His return adds explosiveness to the wide receiver room.
Who's leaving: Six linemen hit the portal
So far this spring, seven Kentucky players have entered the transfer portal, and six of them come from the trenches:
- Anfernee Crease, OL
- Dennious Jackson, DL
- Kendrick Gilbert, DL
- Daniel Mincey, OL
- Marc Nave Jr., OL
- Wallace Unamba, OL
- Jiquavious Marshall, DB (the only non-lineman among them)
These departures open the door for portal additions and early-enrollee freshmen to climb the depth chart. It also underscores just how fluid offensive and defensive line rotations can be in the modern transfer era.
Run-stopping help? SEMO’s Jaylon Stone on UK’s radar
SEMO defensive tackle Jaylon Stone, a top-five FCS run defender according to Pro Football Focus, has scheduled visits to Kentucky and Illinois. With UK’s struggles stopping the run late last season, Stone could be a valuable addition if things go well during the visit.
Tru Edwards’ status still uncertain
Receiver Tru Edwards, who committed earlier in the portal cycle, remains in limbo. His eligibility situation is unresolved, and sources suggest he may never actually see the field in Lexington. It’s a wait-and-see scenario, but Kentucky continues to explore other wide receiver options just in case.
Final thoughts: Trench turnover defines this cycle
Kentucky’s spring portal activity says one thing loud and clear: the trenches are under construction. While six linemen head out, Stoops and staff are hard at work finding replacements, reinforcing the physical identity that’s become a hallmark of Kentucky football under his watch.
More portal moves could still come, but the foundation for summer and fall camp is being rebuilt one piece at a time.