Following spring practice, a receiver is one of the positions at which Kentucky needs transfer assistance.

Following the conclusion of Kentucky football’s spring practice sessions, the Wildcats coaching staff has plenty of positives to take into the summer. But if there’s one glaring hole that still needs to be addressed before the 2025 season kicks off, it’s the wide receiver position. Despite solid development from some returning players and a few flashes from underclassmen, it’s become increasingly clear that Kentucky needs help from the transfer portal to elevate the room to SEC standards.

As head coach Mark Stoops and offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan evaluate the state of their offense, there’s a growing sense of urgency surrounding the need for immediate-impact playmakers on the outside. With the spring transfer portal window now open, wide receiver is undoubtedly among Kentucky’s highest priorities.

A Position of Uncertainty

When spring camp opened, there was cautious optimism that a few returning players could rise to the occasion and solidify themselves as reliable options in the passing game. Sophomore Anthony Brown-Stephens, redshirt freshman Hardley Gilmore, and junior Jordan Dingle (used in hybrid tight end/receiver sets) each had their moments throughout the spring. But when it came to consistent separation, elite route-running, or explosive downfield threats, the unit didn’t deliver the kind of performance that inspires confidence.

The departure of top targets like Tayvion Robinson and Barion Brown’s shift toward a more versatile, gadget-heavy role has left the Wildcats short on traditional boundary receivers. Brown is still electric with the ball in his hands, but Kentucky needs someone who can win one-on-one matchups outside the numbers and stretch the field vertically.

Meanwhile, redshirt sophomore Dekel Crowdus, once a highly touted recruit, has struggled with injuries and consistency. Freshmen like Ardell Banks and David Washington are still developing, and the learning curve in the SEC is steep for young receivers. Simply put, Kentucky doesn’t currently have a wide receiver group that can impose fear in opposing secondaries—at least not without help.

Transfer Portal Reality

The good news for Kentucky is that the transfer portal remains an avenue to address immediate roster concerns, especially during the spring window. After seeing how the current group fared during scrimmages and practices, the coaching staff has reportedly ramped up efforts to identify and land a transfer wideout with experience, size, and production.

What they’re looking for isn’t a developmental player or a depth piece. They need someone who can step into a starting role on Day 1.

Ideally, Kentucky wants a receiver with proven college production at the Power Five level. Someone who has already faced elite cornerbacks, understands route concepts, and can quickly pick up Hamdan’s offensive system. Length and speed are also top priorities—Kentucky needs a vertical threat who can keep safeties honest and create spacing for Brown, tight end Josh Kattus, and the run game.

Names to Watch

While the portal is still in flux and many top receivers are weighing offers or entering over the coming days, a few intriguing names have already surfaced as potential targets.

• Javon Baker (UCF) – A former Alabama transfer, Baker has size, experience, and SEC pedigree. If he were to hit the portal again, Kentucky could make a strong push given his ties to the South and familiarity with high-level competition.
• Jyaire Shorter (North Texas/Auburn) – A big-play specialist who transferred to Auburn last season but didn’t get as many reps in Hugh Freeze’s offense. Shorter averaged over 27 yards per catch in 2022 and has the kind of explosive upside Kentucky needs.
• Domani Jackson (USC) – Though primarily known as a cornerback, rumors have floated about potential offensive usage. A longshot, but the staff is monitoring all angles.

More names will emerge as spring depth charts finalize and players reassess their roles. Kentucky’s staff has been aggressive in the portal under Stoops, and there’s no reason to think that’ll change.

Why the Need is So Pressing

Kentucky’s quarterback situation appears to be stabilizing with Georgia transfer Brock Vandagriff winning praise during spring camp. Vandagriff has shown command of the offense, strong leadership, and an ability to push the ball downfield. But for the passing game to truly open up, he needs help on the outside.

Without a consistent outside threat, defenses can stack the box and key on Brown and Kattus in short-range throws. Vandagriff has the arm talent to exploit one-on-one matchups downfield, but he needs receivers who can win those battles. Last season, the Wildcats struggled to generate chunk plays through the air, and failing to upgrade at receiver would likely result in similar limitations.

A lack of receiver depth also increases the risk of stagnation should injuries occur. One or two setbacks could put the offense in a difficult spot.

Culture Fit and Development

While the need for talent is evident, Kentucky won’t bring in just anyone. Stoops has been clear that culture and locker room dynamics matter just as much as ability. They want someone who is not only SEC-ready but also mature, focused, and ready to be a teammate.

The staff is also seeking a receiver who can mentor younger players. Kentucky has invested heavily in developing its younger pass-catchers, and bringing in a transfer with the right attitude could accelerate that growth.

Bush Hamdan, in his first year as Kentucky’s OC, is still implementing his vision of a modern, balanced offense. That vision includes explosive perimeter plays and creative formations, but it hinges on having the right personnel to execute. The new scheme provides opportunities for receivers to shine in space, and it’s something that could appeal to transfer targets looking to boost their draft stock.

The Clock Is Ticking

The spring portal window is short, running from April 16 to April 30. Kentucky must move swiftly, identifying their top options and getting them on campus for visits before summer workouts begin. NIL considerations also play a role, and Kentucky’s collective infrastructure will be crucial in securing a high-level transfer.

Mark Stoops has built Kentucky into a consistent bowl team with physicality, smart recruiting, and a knack for player development. But in the modern SEC, where offensive firepower is more important than ever, the Wildcats can’t afford to lag behind at receiver.

The Bigger Picture

Improving the receiver room isn’t just about 2025—it’s about maintaining competitiveness in a league that’s only getting tougher. With Texas and Oklahoma now joining the SEC, every program is being forced to re-evaluate its offensive approach.

Kentucky has a top-tier running back in Ramon Jefferson, a poised quarterback in Vandagriff, and a solid offensive line returning. But without a receiver who can threaten 1,000 yards and pull coverage away from the middle of the field, those assets can only go so far.

Even defensively, the ripple effect is felt. If the offense can’t stretch the field and score quickly, it puts more pressure on Brad White’s defense to be nearly perfect. Complementary football has always been Stoops’ calling card, and balance on offense is key.

Kentucky is not in crisis, but it is in need. The wide receiver room, as currently constructed, lacks the kind of dynamic, playmaking presence that SEC defenses fear. Post-spring evaluations have confirmed what many suspected—help must come via the transfer portal.

The good news? The program has the structure, resources, and vision to attract the right kind of player. The bad news? The window is tight, competition is fierce, and missing on this position could mean the difference between a mid-tier bowl and a run at something greater.

The Wildcats know the stakes. Now it’s time to make a move.