Transfer Portal Closes Without Brock Vandagriff in It—What Does That Mean for…

**Transfer Portal Closes Without Brock Vandagriff in It—What Does That Mean for Kentucky?**

 

As the NCAA transfer portal draws to a close, one of the biggest storylines in college football this offseason is the decision of quarterback Brock Vandagriff to remain at the University of Georgia. This development has significant implications, not only for Georgia but also for several teams that were hoping to secure Vandagriff’s services, particularly the University of Kentucky. With Vandagriff staying put in Athens, Kentucky must recalibrate its quarterback situation and reassess its plans for the 2024 season. What does this mean for the Wildcats and their aspirations in the Southeastern Conference (SEC)?

 

### The Brock Vandagriff Saga

 

Brock Vandagriff, a former five-star recruit from the class of 2021, was widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in his recruiting class. He has spent his college career at Georgia, but behind Heisman-winning quarterback Stetson Bennett and later the highly touted Carson Beck, Vandagriff has been relegated to a backup role. Despite his immense talent and high recruiting profile, playing time has been limited at Georgia, leading many to speculate that he might enter the transfer portal in search of a starting role elsewhere.

 

Throughout the offseason, rumors circulated about Vandagriff’s future. His name was frequently linked to various programs looking to upgrade at the quarterback position, and Kentucky was one of the teams that emerged as a potential destination. The Wildcats were coming off a relatively disappointing season, and their quarterback situation was a topic of concern, with Will Levis departing for the NFL and questions about the readiness of current quarterbacks.

 

However, as the transfer portal window closed, Brock Vandagriff did not enter it. This was a surprise to many, especially those who believed that his talents could immediately elevate a team in need of a quarterback. Instead, he decided to stay at Georgia, likely waiting for his turn to assume the starting role in a program that has recently been a national powerhouse.

 

### Kentucky’s Quarterback Situation

 

For Kentucky, Vandagriff’s decision leaves them with some uncertainty at the most important position on the field. The Wildcats are coming off a season where quarterback play was inconsistent. Devin Leary, a transfer from NC State, was expected to be the starter in 2023, but injuries and a lack of production meant Kentucky’s offense failed to live up to expectations. Leary’s departure leaves Kentucky without a clear-cut answer at quarterback, and the program’s success in 2024 hinges on finding stability at that position.

 

Currently, Kentucky has two quarterbacks who will compete for the starting job—Devin Leary’s replacement, and potentially, redshirt freshman Kaiya Sheron. Sheron showed promise in limited action during his freshman year, but his inexperience leaves questions about his readiness to take the reins for a full season. Other options include incoming recruits or potential graduate transfers, but none carry the immediate impact that someone of Vandagriff’s pedigree would bring.

 

With Vandagriff staying at Georgia, Kentucky must now turn its attention to other options in the transfer portal or potentially rely on internal development to address their quarterback concerns. One important factor will be whether Kentucky’s coaching staff can get the most out of their existing quarterbacks, a process that will require significant development throughout the spring and summer months leading up to the 2024 season.

 

### Impact on Recruiting and Future Plans

 

Brock Vandagriff’s decision also has long-term implications for Kentucky’s recruiting efforts. The Wildcats have made significant strides in recent years under head coach Mark Stoops, especially on the defensive side of the ball, but the offense has often lagged behind, particularly when it comes to the quarterback position. Kentucky has built a reputation for developing strong defenses and cultivating a hard-nosed, physical identity, but without a consistent quarterback, it has been difficult to challenge the SEC’s elite programs.

 

The prospect of landing a highly sought-after quarterback like Vandagriff would have been a game-changer for Kentucky. He is an experienced, talented quarterback with an impressive skill set, capable of leading an offense in the SEC. With the transfer portal being a critical avenue for teams like Kentucky to address key positions, missing out on a player like Vandagriff forces the Wildcats to explore other avenues to improve their quarterback play.

 

In particular, Kentucky will need to focus on maximizing the development of Sheron and any other quarterbacks on the roster. They may also look to recruit more quarterbacks in future classes, with an eye on bringing in a player who can help lead the team to higher levels of success. If Stoops and his staff can build a solid system that plays to their quarterbacks’ strengths, they could still find success in 2024 and beyond. However, the absence of a high-profile addition like Vandagriff could leave them on the outside looking in when it comes to competing with the SEC’s elite teams.

 

### A Missed Opportunity for Kentucky

 

For Kentucky, missing out on Vandagriff is undeniably a missed opportunity. The Wildcats have been on the verge of competing at a higher level in the SEC, but quarterback play has often held them back. Kentucky’s offense has frequently struggled in recent seasons, and despite a strong defensive showing, the team has not been able to take that next step forward. A quarterback like Vandagriff could have been the catalyst needed to elevate the offense and provide Kentucky with a dynamic threat under center.

 

Without Vandagriff, Kentucky must now turn to alternative solutions. While it may seem like a setback, there is still time for the Wildcats to build a competitive roster. The SEC is notoriously difficult to navigate, with powerhouse programs like Georgia, Alabama, and LSU leading the way, but Kentucky has had success under Mark Stoops, even in the face of adversity. The team’s strong culture, solid coaching staff, and commitment to player development could help them overcome the absence of a star quarterback.

 

### Conclusion

 

The decision by Brock Vandagriff to remain at Georgia is a notable development in the college football offseason, particularly for teams like Kentucky, who were hoping to land the talented quarterback. For the Wildcats, it means that they will have to proceed with their current options, looking to develop a quarterback who can lead the offense and help elevate the program to new heights. While missing out on Vandagriff is a disappointment, it is not the end of Kentucky’s aspirations. The Wildcats will need to continue to focus on player development and recruitment, while relying on their strong defense and physicality to stay competitive in the SEC. With a steady hand at quarterback, Kentucky could still be a dangerous team in 2024 and beyond.