We established earlier just how dominant Will Stein's quarterbacks are. The numbers from Bo Nix (77% completion) and Dillon Gabriel (4,000+ yards) don't lie. Stein's system is a quarterback's paradise. But right now, Kentucky's quarterback room is basically an empty apartment.
Zach Calzada has graduated. Cutter Boley has said he is exploring his options and may not return. Freshmen Brennan Ward and Stone Saunders are unproven. That leaves zero sure-fire starters on the roster. So, where does Will Stein turn to run this high-powered offense?
Here are 4 QBs Will Stein could target immediately
1. Austin Novosad
The former 4-star QB is on Oregon's roster but barely played this year after losing the competition to Dante Moore. He knows Stein's system inside and out, has two years of eligibility left, and would provide an instant plug-and-play solution. He wouldn't need to learn the playbook; he could just step in and rip it.
2. LaNorris Sellers
This would be a swing for the fences. Sellers had an injury-filled year for a bad South Carolina team. While he may run it back with Shane Beamer, his talent is undeniable. He threw for 2,534 yards and 18 TDs in 2024 despite the chaos around him. If Stein can fix his efficiency like he did with Nix, Sellers could be a superstar in Lexington.
3. Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele
'JKS' was originally committed to Oregon and Stein before flipping to Cal late. He won the starting job there as a true freshman and put up 3,117 yards and 17 TDs. He is raw, but the connection is there. It is easy to see why Stein wanted him originally, and bringing him to the SEC would be a massive coup.
4. DJ Lagway
The Florida QB struggled this season after being injured, but the arm talent is generational. He has one of the best deep balls in college football. If Kentucky lands some big-time receivers, Lagway makes a lot of sense as a high-upside reclamation project in Lexington.
Then of course there is also the class of 2026 where Matt Ponatoski plans to sign with Kentucky today and Austin Beaver who was signed with Oregon.
Which one would you like to see leading the Cats next year? Let us know in the comments.