First Down Kentucky: The Most Shocking Commitments of the Stoops Era
Even 24 hours after Marquise Davis announced his commitment to Kentucky, it’s still hard to comprehend just how crazy that was. It’s the most unexpected recruiting announcement of the Stoops era that actually went the Wildcats’ way.
There are a few others that come close. Justin Rogers was the first five-star commitment secured by Stoops. It was a pleasant surprise over the summer, even though he had already officially visited Kentucky. Most believed Lane Kiffin would sign four-star DL Josaih Hayes on his first signing day as the Ole Miss head coach. Instead, Jon Sumrall pulled a fast one and got the Kentucky commitment.
There were a few head-turning decisions early in the Stoops era. One of Kentucky’s first priorities was convincing Trinity’s Jason Hatcher to come to UK instead of attending USC. The following year Steve Spurrier wanted Drew Barker, but the quarterback decided to play for his home state instead. Those were eye-opening, although not entirely surprising. After all, those guys are from the Commonwealth. Kentucky should get commitments from the state’s top players.
Marquise Davis’ decision came from out of the clouds, an experience that occurred only one other time over the past decade. Wan’Dale Robinson was locked into Kentucky. The ceremony was planned. The commitment video was ready. He was celebrated as a home state hero when he publicly announced his decision to commit to Kentucky. From that point forward, Robinson essentially acted as a part of the team for the final month of the season. Then abruptly before signing day, he flipped to Nebraska. It left everyone around the program stunned. Thankfully, he had a change of heart two years later and successfully rewrote Kentucky’s single-season receiving record book.
Recruiting is not for the faint of heart. Teenagers aren’t the most confident or wisest decision-makers. This week Kentucky was on the winning end of a shocking decision, sending one of the nation’s most talented running backs to Lexington in 2025.
Former Kicker to WKU
A former Wildcat has found a new home. Jackson Smith was an all-state kicker at Boyle County. He’s not moving too far from home down the opposite end of the Bluegrass Parkway. Smith announced on Wednesday he will attend WKU next fall. Of the eight players who left the Kentucky football program following spring practice, half are still searching for a new home.
- DB Jordan Robinson (Entered transfer portal on April 24)
- WR Shamar Porter (Entered transfer portal on April 22)
- WR Ardell Banks (Entered transfer portal on April 22)
- WR Raymond Cottrell (Entered transfer portal on April 16)
- P/K Jackson Smith (Entered transfer portal on April 22): Committed to WKU on May 1
- DB Jaremiah Anglin (Entered transfer portal on April 23): Committed to Pitt on April 28
- WR Cole Lanter (Entered transfer portal on April 16): Committed to Gardner-Webb on April 23
- RB La’Vell Wright (Entered transfer portal on April 10): Committed to Austin Peay on April 24
The Best Way to Announce a Kentucky Offer
Max Hairston has excellent Ls Down form and it should be celebrated. That’s exactly what Aldarius Johnson Jr. did when the 2026 four-star safety from Florida shared that he now has a scholarship offer from the Cats.
Speaking of Ls Down, remember that time Will Levis ran for 982 years and 17 TDs against the Cards? He’s returning to the scene of the crime, seeking more scores.
A Salute to Justin Thomas
Speaking of Louisville, there’s a new sign that will greet travelers on the Watterson Expressway. The two-time PGA Championship Winner is receiving a hometown salute before the Wanamaker Trophy goes up for grabs at Valhalla.
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