Make it 15 players that have entered the transfer portal as Kentucky football loses it's whole defensive line

Kentucky football continues to face a disheartening exodus of talent, with linebacker Noah Matthews becoming the latest player to enter the transfer portal. Matthews, a 2022 recruit, was a three-star prospect from Delaware who chose Kentucky over Illinois. His departure marks the 15th player to leave the program this offseason, underscoring the need for change that Mark Stoops and his staff discussed. See all 15 players that have entered the transfer portal so far by clicking here.

In two seasons with the Wildcats, Matthews recorded modest stats, totaling 12 tackles (3 solo), 9 assists, and 1 fumble recovery across 2023 and 2024. While his contributions on the field were limited, his exit highlights a broader issue: Kentucky missed way too often in recruiting, and the development of these players isn't there anymore. This is particularly concerning as the Wildcats struggle to build a consistent defensive identity as other teams in the SEC continue to get better. With Matthews gone, Kentucky returns now ZERO players from its two-deep at defensive line.

The loss of Matthews follows the departure of several other defensive players, creating a glaring void on a unit already lacking stability under Stoops and defensive coordinator Brad White. Kentucky’s inability to keep key recruits or developmental projects like Matthews reflects poorly on the program’s culture and developmental strategy. Fans and analysts alike have expressed frustration, as the team seems to take two steps back for every step forward in player retention and performance.

Adding to the challenge is the Wildcats’ position in the transfer portal era. Programs like Kentucky, which have historically relied on retaining and developing mid-tier recruits, are now losing players to teams with deeper NIL resources and better pathways to playing time. The Wildcats’ roster turnover raises questions about the program’s trajectory and its ability to compete at the highest levels with the current staff.

For Mark Stoops, the message is clear: Kentucky cannot afford to keep bleeding talent,. As the losses mount, so do concerns about the program’s future—a frustrating reality for a fan base that expects toughness and consistency from its team.