As the Kentucky Wildcats gear up for the upcoming football season, the landscape is buzzing with new faces, fresh strategies, and a whole lot of potential. Even with the influx of new coaches and players, it’s clear who will be pivotal as the season unfolds. But if you’re expecting the current practice squads to mirror the starting lineup come September 5, think again.
New head coach Will Stein is shaking things up with a unique approach. “We don’t have a depth chart,” Stein mentioned after his inaugural practice. Instead, he’s mixing players into “blue” and “white” squads, focusing on development rather than traditional rankings.
While this might sound like the usual “every position is open” rhetoric, Stein’s strategy seems more about fostering growth than playing mind games. He’s already pegged Notre Dame transfer Kenny Minchey as the starting quarterback and highlighted Tennessee transfer Lance Heard as a crucial addition to the offensive line. Keeping defensive linemen Tavion Gadson and Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace was also a top priority for the 2026 roster.
Stein’s depth-chart-free method is more about experimentation. “Everybody says you want to be developed,” he explained.
By not locking players into specific roles, he’s allowing for dynamic combinations, like seeing how Lance Heard performs alongside a walk-on or rotational guard. This approach could lead to some intriguing matchups in practice and offers backups a chance to shine against top-tier competition.
Let’s dive into three players who could make waves this spring.
WR Hardley Gilmore
Gilmore’s journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. Despite signing with two other programs, he’s entering his third season with Kentucky.
After a brief stint in the transfer portal, he’s back in Lexington, ready to contribute. Last season, Gilmore snagged 28 passes for 313 yards and a touchdown.
With LSU transfer Nic Anderson expected to lead the receiving corps, Gilmore has a golden opportunity to carve out a significant role alongside other talents like DJ Miller and Ja’kayden Ferguson.
C Coleton Price
Kentucky’s history of standout centers is well-documented, and Coleton Price is poised to continue that legacy. A transfer from Baylor, where he started 30 games, Price was a top target for the Wildcats. Known for his toughness and leadership, Price could be a cornerstone for the offensive line, bringing a blend of experience and grit that’s invaluable for a team in transition.
LB Elijah Barnes
The linebacker position is a bit of a question mark this spring. With junior Grant Godfrey being the most experienced, the door is wide open for newcomers like Elijah Barnes.
Ranked as the No. 3 linebacker in his high school class, Barnes showed promise during his redshirt season at Texas. Alongside Arkansas transfer Tavion Wallace, Barnes could quickly establish himself as a key player in the Wildcats’ defense.
Stein’s fresh approach and the infusion of new talent make this spring an exciting time for Kentucky football. With a focus on development and opportunity, the Wildcats are setting the stage for a season full of promise and potential.