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After Louisville decommit, Purdue sets sights on 2026 4-star Kentucky DL Josiah Hope

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Josiah Hope likes what he sees in Purdue.

The On four-star d-lineman from Radcliffe (Ky.) North Hardin High recently took an official to West Lafayette. Soon thereafter, Hope de-committed from Louisville. What’s that mean for Purdue?

The 6-3, 305-pound Hope soon will announce his college choice. And, no doubt, Purdue is a top option with offers from the likes of Arkansas, LSU, Auburn, Wisconsin and Kentucky, among others.

“I’m just really excited,” said Hope, the No. 2 2026 recruit in Kentucky according to On3. “I know Coach (Kelvin) Green and Coach (Jake) Trump work really well together. The campus is good. The dorms are great. I just really like everything.”

At North Hardin, Hope plays end when on the wide side of the field. He also plays on the interior, which will be his home in college.

“I’m dominate,” he said. “I establish a new line of scrimmage. I have a good run game and I just always play hard.”

In 2024, Hope tallied 61 tackles, 19 TFLs, seven sacks and two forced fumbles in helping the Trojans go 8-5 and advance to the second round of the KHSAA Class 6A playoffs.

His best pass-rush move?

“The spin,” said Hope, who likes to model his play after star Kansas City Chief DT Chris Jones.

Purdue has 12 commitments thus far in its 2026 class. The lone defensive lineman is end Max Carmicle, the Boilermakers’ most recent pledge.

MORE: 2026 Purdue commitments

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