Redshirt freshman defensive lineman Kendrick Gilbert has officially entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, per Hayes Fawcett of On3. The 6-foot-5, 275-pound athlete departs from Kentucky with three years of eligibility remaining, freeing up a scholarship spot for the Wildcats as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Gilbert, a standout recruit from Cathedral High School in Indianapolis, originally committed to Purdue before flipping to Kentucky on National Signing Day. Rated a 4-star prospect by Rivals, he was ranked the No. 2 overall player in Indiana and the No. 12 defensive lineman in the nation. He also received offers from top programs such as LSU and Iowa.
In 2024, Gilbert appeared in eight of Kentucky’s 12 games, totaling five tackles and one tackle for loss. Notable performances included a two-tackle game against Ohio and a shared tackle for loss versus Southern Miss. As a redshirt in 2023, he saw action in two games, recording one tackle each against Ball State and Clemson.
Gilbert’s exit opens up more flexibility for head coach Mark Stoops and his staff as they continue to adjust the roster through the transfer portal.
