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Kentucky football lands transfer commitment from potential starter at Michigan

DJ Waller, a projected starter at Michigan, has transferred to Kentucky.
ByAlec Lasley
Jan 8, 2024; Houston, TX, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back DJ Waller Jr. (13) celebrates
Jan 8, 2024; Houston, TX, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back DJ Waller Jr. (13) celebrates | Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Kentucky football added talent at a needed position through the transfer portal as former Michigan defensive back DJ Waller made the call for the Cats.

Waller, who was trending as a starter for the Wolverines throughout spring practice, was an unexpected name in the transfer portal.

He spent one year at Michigan and played in 11 games as a true freshman. He had 12 tackles, and one pass breakup last year.

Waller is a 6-foot-3 and 203-pound defensive back who will look to make a major impact for the Wildcats right away.

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"Very long, tall and has lined up in different places defensively.Best projection right now is as a safety but could get opportunities to play cornerback or grow into a hybrid backer," 247Sports national recruiting analsyt Allen Trieu said of Waller coming out of high school. "Will come down hill and likes contact. Shows short-area twitch and change of direction at his size. Pure long speed is a bit of an unknown. Also played receiver and shows solid ball skills. On the raw side but has worked on his technique and is developing. Has a higher ceiling and versatility."

Kentucky lost Jordan Robinson and Andru Phillips this offseason. Robinson went into the transfer portal while Phillips was selected in the third-round of the NFL Draft over the weekend.

Kentucky's transfer class ranks in the top-20 after bringing in 11 new players through the portal.

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