The war of words between former Kentucky recruiting coordinator Vince Marrow and former Wildcat receiver Jeff Badet is heating up.
We previously reported on Badet’s shocking claim that Marrow threatened to ensure he and teammate Garrett Johnson "never played a down in the NFL." Badet alleged that Marrow followed through on that threat by telling scouts he was a "cancer" to the locker room.
Now, the current Louisville General Manager is firing back.
Marrow issues strong denial of wrongdoing
Marrow, not one to take criticism sitting down, took to social media to vehemently deny the accusations, claiming he was always in Badet’s corner.
"That’s 100 percent false," Marrow stated. "You were one of my favorite players, both of you guys. Scouts would never say I said that because I talk positive about our guys."
Marrow attempted to pivot to a high road, praising Badet's ability on the field.
"I told them [you] were one of the most explosive players I ever saw. God bless you, take care buddy."
Badet stands his ground
The "God bless you" sentiment didn't seem to smooth things over. Badet immediately clapped back, insisting that his version of events is the truth and that he has nothing to gain by fabricating the story years later.
"Coach I’m a grown man now and there’s no need to go back and forth on this, I have no reason to lie," Badet responded. "I kept this secret for years now but today was the day to finally release everything. I don’t hold any bad grudges towards you."
Coach I’m a grown man now and there’s no need to go back and forth on this, I have no reason to lie. I kept this secret for years now but today was the day to finally release everything. I don’t hold any bad grudges towards you. https://t.co/M2kki9q6zh
— Jeff Badet (@JeffBadet__) December 1, 2025
The impact on recruiting
While these remain allegations, the public dispute raises uncomfortable questions for Louisville.
Marrow’s value as a GM and recruiter is built on trust and the promise of developing players for the next level. If the perception grows that crossing Marrow could lead to professional sabotage, rival schools will undoubtedly use that against him on the recruiting trail.
For a GM tasked with managing a roster and NFL liaisons, a public feud where a former player accuses you of lying to scouts is, at best, a distraction and at worst, a liability.