Kentucky offensive tackle unavailable at start of season

When Kentucky released its first roster for the 2024 season, Big Blue Nation was preparing for some absences. DL Injuries Joshua HayesDL Tavion Gadsonand RB Chip Trayanum were not state secrets. One player from the back two was missing, and he will also join the three on the injury list.

Ford workshop spent almost the entire 2023 season as second on the depth chart on the right side behind Jeremy Flax. Here is JUCO Transfer Anfernee fold was found today. Mark Stoops confirmed that Ford will be out for an extended period due to an unspecified injury.

Ford was a key transfer acquisition last offseason. Kentucky desperately needed reinforcements at the offensive tackle position, and Ford was expected to step in seamlessly after starting 11 games in three seasons at USC. He pushed for playing time, but Flax rose to the occasion and secured his spot at right tackle.

Unfortunately, injuries have been an issue throughout Ford’s college career. They were a frequent occurrence during the Texas native’s time at Southern Cal, and now he’s out of action again for an extended period of time at the start of the 2024 season.

Kentucky has planned ahead to be prepared for this absence. Instead of relying on Ford, Gerald Mincey came out of Tennessee and was exceptional. Stoops likes the direction the offensive line is taking before the season.

“I like this group. I feel like we are improving,” Stoops said. “Everyone always wants to continue to build the depth that we are looking for. We need to continue to bring in some young guys that we think can help and that will be needed at some point this season. I think the additions of Mincey and (Jalen) Farmer has really helped us. I feel that presence, I feel the physicality out there. We’re not perfect and we’re still developing, but I think we’re getting better.”

The Kentucky football team’s roster featured several ORs in the secondary. That’s because Stoops will be using a lot of defensive backs on Saturdays. The Kentucky head coach also noted that Michigan’s transfer DJ Waller has missed some time throughout training camp due to injury. He will be ready to play on Saturday, but it’s notable that he hasn’t been at 100% this preseason.

There is another injury that Stoops mentioned. Brandon White was often seen as a slot receiver in the two-deep position last season. The speedster from Cincinnati recently had to take a break due to a minor injury.