Kentucky legend named to SEC Quarter Century Team

Derek Abney honored as best punt returner in the last 25 years

Before Wan’Dale lit up the scoreboard and before Lynn Bowden blurred position lines, there was Derek Abney—a one-man thrill ride who turned every punt into a highlight reel.

And now, he’s immortalized.

Abney was named to the SEC’s Quarter Century Team by rotowir, honored as the top returner from 2000–2025. It’s a well-deserved nod for a player who redefined special teams for the Kentucky Wildcats and the entire conference.

From 2000 to 2003, Abney left defenders in the dust and announcers in awe. In 2002 alone, he returned four punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns—an absurd stat line that earned him All-American honors.

Across his career, Abney tallied six punt return TDs, still second all-time in SEC history and sixth in NCAA history. He also posted over 5,800 all-purpose yards and 13 receiving touchdowns, with a fearless playing style that made him a threat on every touch.

Here’s what made him great:

• 2002: 1,922 all-purpose yards, 6 total return TDs
• Career: 2,315 kick return yards, 1,042 punt return yards, 6 punt return TDs
• Led the SEC in kick return yardage three straight years

Abney joins SEC icons like Tim Tebow, DeVonta Smith, Darren McFadden, and Jadeveon Clowney on the 25-year super squad. He’s Kentucky’s lone representative—and the recognition is long overdue.

The full squad:

Offense

Quarterback: Tim Tebow (Florida, 2006–2009)

Running Back: Darren McFadden (Arkansas, 2005–2007)

Wide Receiver: DeVonta Smith (Alabama, 2017–2020)

Wide Receiver: Amari Cooper (Alabama, 2012–2014)

Wide Receiver: Ja’Marr Chase (LSU, 2018–2019)

Tight End: Brock Bowers (Georgia, 2021–2023)

Offensive Tackle: Andre Smith (Alabama, 2006–2008)

Offensive Guard: Shawn Andrews (Arkansas, 2001–2003)

Center: Maurkice Pouncey (Florida, 2007–2009)

Offensive Guard: Barrett Jones (Alabama, 2008–2012)

Offensive Tackle: Luke Joeckel (Texas A&M, 2010–2012)

Defense

Defensive End: Jadeveon Clowney (South Carolina, 2011–2013)

Defensive Tackle: Glenn Dorsey (LSU, 2004–2007)

Defensive Tackle: Nick Fairley (Auburn, 2009–2010)

Defensive End: David Pollack (Georgia, 2001–2004)

Linebacker: Patrick Willis (Ole Miss, 2003–2006)

Linebacker: C.J. Mosley (Alabama, 2010–2013)

Linebacker: Roquan Smith (Georgia, 2015–2017)

Cornerback: Patrick Peterson (LSU, 2008–2010)

Safety: Eric Berry (Tennessee, 2007–2009)

Safety: Minkah Fitzpatrick (Alabama, 2015–2017)

Cornerback: Joe Haden (Florida, 2007–2009)

Special Teams

Kicker: Daniel Carlson (Auburn, 2014–2017)

Punter: Drew Butler (Georgia, 2007–2011)

Returner: Derek Abney (Kentucky, 2000–2003)

Coach

Nick Saban (LSU and Alabama, 2000–2023)

Punters feared him. Fans adored him. Opposing coaches game-planned around him.

In an era where Kentucky struggled to stay bowl-relevant, Abney was the constant spark. Every time the ball was kicked his way, Kroger Field (then Commonwealth Stadium) held its breath.

With his name etched among the greats, Derek Abney’s legacy is now SEC royalty. A receiver, a returner, and a Wildcat forever.