Kentucky QB among top breakout candidates in 2024 season

Kentucky knew it needed to hit on a quarterback in the transfer portal this offseason after two straight disappointing seasons, especially last year with just average play under center with Devin Leary.

They hit a homerun based on potential as Brock Vandagriff made the move from Georgia to Kentucky. Vandagriff was a former five-star recruit in the 2021 class, ranked No. 17 overall in the class. But, his time in Athens was underwhelming as he appeared in just 13 games across three seasons.

Last year was the only season he completed a pass, totaling 165 yards in eight games.

So, while the potential is there, the production and experience isn't.

This week, however, Pro Football Focus’ Mitch Kaiser dropped his 10 breakout candidates for the 2024 season and the Kentucky signal caller was on the list.

"Vandagriff has been around for a few years and is technically a two-time national champion, having played for Georgia from 2021 to 2023," Kaiser wrote. "After losing a QB battle with Carson Beck last summer, Vandagriff earned recognition as one of the best backups in the country. However, with Beck returning for 2024, Vandagriff made the decision to transfer to Kentucky, where he can finally be the starting quarterback for a program on the rise.

"The strong-armed 6-foot-3 quarterback dropped back to pass just 20 times last season but averaged 9.2 yards per pass attempt to earn an 87.0 PFF grade. He threw just 18 passes but recorded two big-time throws and zero turnover-worthy plays."

When Kentucky left its spring game, Vandagriff was locked in as the starter for 2024. Then, shortly after, the Wildcats landed Rutgers transfer and former four-star recruit Gavin Wimsatt. Now, there is a clear quarterback battle this summer and likely a 2024 season that sees both Wimsatt and Vandagriff behind center.

Still, it would appear after a strong spring that Vandagriff will be the likely starter in game one.

“Brock has had a tremendous spring," Stoops said after the Spring Game. " ... (he's) putting it all together and everything but extremely talented."

Along with Vandagriff, Kentucky will also have a new playcaller as Bush Hamdan takes over the offensive coordinator role following recent stints at Boise State, Missouri and Washington as the OC or quarterbacks coach.

Kentucky is coming off of a 7-6 record in 2023 and a loss in the Gator Bowl -- its second straight loss in a bowl game.