Kentucky Defensive Lineman Kendrick Gilbert Enters Transfer Portal, Opening New Chapter in Careers
Redshirt freshman Kendrick Gilbert, a promising defensive lineman for the Kentucky Wildcats, has officially entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, as reported by Hayes Fawcett of On3. Gilbert’s decision makes him the first Kentucky player to depart the team during the 2025 spring period. The 6’5″, 275-pound lineman from Indianapolis leaves the program with three years of eligibility still intact. His departure not only offers him a chance to start anew, but it also gives the Wildcats an additional scholarship to work with as they continue shaping their roster.
A Highly Touted Recruit with Strong Early Expectations
Gilbert entered Kentucky’s program amid high hopes. He made a name for himself at Cathedral High School in Indianapolis and was considered a top-tier recruit—rated a four-star by Rivals. He was ranked the second-best player in Indiana and placed 12th nationally among defensive linemen. Initially, he seemed destined to join Purdue, but when head coach Jeff Brohm left the Boilermakers, Gilbert switched to Kentucky on National Signing Day. His recruitment was seen as a significant win for the Wildcats, particularly due to his athletic build and high ceiling as a future impact player on the defensive line. He also had interest from powerhouse programs like LSU and Iowa.
Limited Playing Time and Developmental Challenges
Although he came in with significant potential, Gilbert’s time on the field was relatively limited. He redshirted his first year in 2023, appearing in only two games. In 2024, he was on the field for eight games, where he tallied a modest stat line: five total tackles and one tackle for loss. His best showings came during matchups against Ohio and Southern Miss, but over the entire season, he played just 53 defensive snaps.
Part of the challenge seemed to be maintaining his playing weight, which reportedly affected his consistency and availability. Even with Kentucky needing more depth at the position, Gilbert wasn’t able to break into a more substantial role.
Crowded Depth Chart Influences Decision
Gilbert’s decision to transfer also comes as Kentucky continues to reshape its defensive front. The Wildcats have brought in several players through the transfer portal this offseason, including David Gusta from Washington State, Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace from South Dakota, and Jaden Williams from Wyoming. On top of that, incoming freshman Jerod Smith II is expected to compete for snaps, and offensive lineman Austin Ramsey has been converted to the defensive line to help with depth.
With the position group becoming more competitive and Gilbert not seeing a clear path to regular playing time, his transfer appears to be motivated by the need for more opportunity and a better fit for his development.
Implications and Future Prospects
Kentucky now gains an additional scholarship spot to continue building the 2025 roster, while Gilbert will look to restart his college career elsewhere. Although his impact at Kentucky was limited, he still holds the potential that made him a highly sought-after recruit. His move is yet another example of how fluid college football rosters have become in the transfer portal era, where players are seeking the right environment to thrive—both on and off the field.
Wherever Gilbert lands next, he’ll bring size, athleticism, and a fresh drive to prove himself and finally emerge as the impactful defensive lineman many envisioned during his high school career.
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