Kentucky’s offensive line depth has taken another hit.
Wallace Unamba, a 6-foot-5, 315-pound offensive tackle who transferred to Kentucky from New Mexico just a few months ago, has officially entered the transfer portal, per the courier journal.
Unamba was one of the more experienced linemen on the roster, playing 699 snaps in 2024 without allowing a single sack. That kind of efficiency stands out anywhere, and it certainly gave New Mexico some consistency up front.
⏪ Why Unamba is leaving
Unamba was primarily working as a backup left guard during Kentucky’s spring practices, but his natural position is tackle—a spot where he likely still wants to start.
With no clear path to being a first-team starter at UK, the three-star transfer is seeking a new opportunity. This move isn’t about performance. It’s about fit and opportunity.
📉 Fourth lineman to hit the portal
Unamba’s departure marks the fourth offensive lineman from Kentucky to enter the portal this offseason, continuing a trend that’s made O-line depth a clear concern heading into the summer. The other three transfers so far are:
- Anfernee Crease, OL
- Daniel Mincey, OL
- Marc Nave Jr., OL
Mark Stoops and offensive line coach Eric Wolford are now tasked with retooling a unit that has seen both departures and shuffling, even after showing real signs of improvement last fall.
🔍 What’s next for Big Blue Nation?
Kentucky still has some reliable returners, but the portal will now become a two-way street. Expect UK to be aggressive in adding more bodies to the offensive line room—particularly players with tackle flexibility or immediate eligibility.
Unamba, meanwhile, will be a hot name in the portal, especially for teams looking for a plug-and-play tackle who’s proven he can hold up in pass protection.
🧢 Final thought
Unamba’s loss stings, but it doesn’t have to derail the newly built offensive line. It’s just another sign of the portal era, where depth is fleeting and roster management never sleeps.
The search for O-line help is on—and with WR also a top priority, it’s shaping up to be a busy few weeks for the Wildcats’ staff.