The Kentucky Wildcats football program is making key moves in the transfer portal as they aim to rebuild their roster, not with a new coach, but under the $44 million dollar man himself, Mark Stoops. With a focus on critical positions like offensive line, wide receiver, and defensive back, Kentucky is targeting several talented players to bolster its lineup. Here's a breakdown of the top transfer portal prospects Kentucky is pursuing, as reported by Chris Beasmore.
Here are the MAIN PLAYERS that Kentucky is probably looking at in the transfer portal:
— Chris Beasmore (@CBeasmoreSports) January 13, 2025
- Shiyazh Pete, OT, 6-foot-8, 320-pounds, Pete played at New Mexico State, so Kentucky is battling Vanderbilt for him, but he would come in and be the immediate starting LT
- Tru Edwards, WR,…
1. Shiyazh Pete (OT, 6’8”, 320 pounds)
Background: A standout offensive tackle from New Mexico State, Pete brings an imposing frame and the potential to step in as Kentucky’s immediate starting left tackle.
Competition: Kentucky is battling Vanderbilt for Pete's commitment, but Nebraska is currently viewed as a frontrunner.
On3 Rating: A three-star transfer prospect.
Impact: With Kentucky’s need for offensive line stability, Pete could be a game-changer up front at Left Tackle.
2. Tru Edwards (WR, 6’3”, 201 pounds)
Background: A productive wide receiver from Louisiana Tech, Edwards is a key target as Kentucky looks to rebuild its receiver room following significant turnover, including the departure of its wide receivers coach.
2024 Stats:
Receptions: 85
Yards: 989
Touchdowns: 6
Longest Reception: 86 yards
Impact: With his size, speed, and playmaking ability, Edwards could quickly become a primary target in Kentucky’s deep passing game, a void left by Barion Brown.
3. Trevion and Tamarcus Cooley
The Cooley brothers are another intriguing option for Kentucky, though it’s unclear whether the Wildcats will pursue both or focus solely on Tamarcus.
Tamarcus Cooley (DB, 5’11”, 205 pounds)
Background: Tamarcus is a versatile defensive back who has played at Maryland and NC State.
2024 Stats:
Tackles: 39
Pass Breakups (PBU): 9
Forced Fumbles (FF): 2
Interceptions (INT): 3
Eligibility: Three years remaining.
Impact: Tamarcus could bring immediate depth and playmaking ability to Kentucky’s secondary which has not been great recently.
Trevion Cooley (RB, 5’11”, 208 pounds)
Background: Trevion is a running back who has spent time at Louisville and Georgia Tech.
Career Stats:
2024: 6 carries, 26 yards, 4.3 YPC.
2023: 64 carries, 274 yards, 3 TDs.
2022: 59 carries, 278 yards, 2 TDs.
2021: 86 carries, 431 yards, 1 TD.
Impact: While Trevion is a proven contributor, Kentucky’s primary focus appears to be on Tamarcus.
Kentucky’s Transfer Portal Strategy
Kentucky is expected to secure commitments from 3-4 of its top targets, potentially more as the portal evolves. With head coach Mark Stoops and offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan leading the charge, the Wildcats are working to ensure the program remains competitive in the SEC.
BBN will be watching closely as the pieces come together for the 2025 season. This couldbe Mark Stoops hardest job, rebuilding the mess he made.