Kentucky football hasn’t had much to celebrate on the recruiting trail this cycle — but that could soon change in a big way.
Matt Ponatoski, a four-star quarterback ranked among the top 10 at his position by On3, released his final four schools this week: Alabama, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Oregon. The 6-foot-1 signal-caller from Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, sits high on the Wildcats’ wish list, and his decision could have ripple effects across the program.
Ponatoski’s recruitment comes at a crucial time for Kentucky. The Wildcats have just one commitment for the 2025 class, and with presumed starter Zach Calzada set to graduate after this season, they’ll be starting over at quarterback once again. Cutter Boley was supposed to be the answer, but was recruited over this year. It could be his turn next fall, but rumors suggest the staff aren't sold on him just yet.
The revolving door at the position has become a troubling trend under Mark Stoops — with the lone success story being Will Levis. Others, like Devin Leary, regressed in Lexington despite promising résumés.
Leary, who transferred from NC State in 2023, never looked comfortable in Kentucky’s offense. While he threw for 2,746 yards and 25 touchdowns, his completion percentage dipped to 56.3%, and he tossed 12 interceptions — the highest mark of his career. Much of that decline was blamed on the pace and predictability of the offense, which remained methodical even after Liam Coen’s departure.
Second year offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan, hired from Boise State, is now tasked with fixing that. But Kentucky's tempo remained one of the slowest in the SEC last year, ranking 112th in players per game. That could raise questions about fit — especially for a rhythm passer like Ponatoski.
Matt Ponatoski is very similar to former Kentucky QB Devin Leary
Ironically, he’s drawn comparisons to Leary. 247Sports’ Director of Scouting Andrew Ivins said Ponatoski “reminds [him] of a healthy Devin Leary,” noting his accuracy, intelligence, and knack for delivering off-platform throws.
“Stocky pocket passer with eye-popping production… Can throw with both pace and touch. More importantly, can get the ball out fast and push the tempo,” Ivins said. “Moves like a middle infielder and will deliver some off-balance dimes, which makes sense seeing as how he’s a nationally ranked shortstop with MLB interest.”
That baseball background adds another layer of intrigue. Ponatoski has plans to play both football and baseball in college, and Kentucky’s dual-sport flexibility could be part of its pitch. The Wildcats have previously allowed athletes to play both, and proximity to his hometown of Cincinnati may also factor into the decision.
On the field, Ponatoski took a massive leap between his sophomore and junior seasons, setting multiple school records and emerging as one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the country. His blend of poise, timing, and decision-making makes him a coveted prospect for programs looking for a steady, multi-year starter. While he won’t wow with scrambling ability, he has enough mobility to extend plays and can process coverages at a high level.
For Kentucky, landing Ponatoski would represent more than just a recruiting win — it would signal progress at the program’s most important position. After years of underwhelming quarterback play and system growing pains, Stoops needs a player who can elevate the offense — not just manage it.
Competing against Alabama and Oregon won’t be easy, but Kentucky offers early playing time, geographic proximity, and the chance to be the face of a new era. With a thin quarterback depth chart and a coaching staff eager to turn the page, Matt Ponatoski has a real opportunity to make Lexington his home.
Now the question becomes: can Kentucky close the deal?