Kentucky Football is keeping the good vibes rolling-and they’re doing it with a hometown addition who knows the Bluegrass State inside and out.
Defensive tackle Ben Reeves, a Northern Kentucky native and Georgetown College standout, announced Thursday that he’s committed to the Wildcats. He arrives with three years of eligibility left and a hunger to prove he belongs on the SEC stage.
Reeves is coming off a productive season at Georgetown College, where he made his presence felt on the defensive line. In 10 games, the 6-foot-1, 240-pound lineman posted 30 tackles, five tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and even batted down a couple of passes. That’s the kind of all-around disruption that catches a coaching staff’s attention-no matter the level.
Now, let’s be clear: transitioning from the NAIA to the SEC is no small feat. The speed, size, and complexity of the game all ramp up dramatically.
But Reeves isn’t walking in blind. He’s got the frame, the motor, and the local roots that suggest he’s ready to embrace the challenge.
And for Kentucky, this is more than just a depth move-it’s a statement that they’re serious about finding and developing talent close to home.
Reeves also brings a familiar connection to the locker room. He played his high school ball at Covington Catholic, where he lined up alongside current UK tight end Willie Rodriguez. That kind of continuity can go a long way in helping a player adjust to the next level, especially when stepping into one of college football’s most competitive conferences.
And let’s not overlook the significance of this moment for Reeves and his family. Georgetown College sits just 15 minutes up the road from Kentucky’s campus. For a local kid to make that short drive and suit up for the Wildcats-it’s more than a roster move; it’s a dream realized.
Liam Coen and his staff have been building momentum over the past six weeks, and this addition shows they’re not just looking nationally-they’re keeping a sharp eye on their own backyard. Reeves may not be the most talked-about name in the recruiting cycle, but don’t be surprised if he carves out a role down the line. For now, he’s a gritty, homegrown addition to a program that’s clearly trending in the right direction.