
The Kentucky Wildcats football program is undergoing significant changes in its tight end roster as the 2025 season approaches.
Recent departures through the transfer portal have prompted the Wildcats to seek reinforcements to maintain depth and competitiveness in this crucial position.
Departures from the Tight End Position
In December 2024, starting tight end Jordan Dingle entered the transfer portal, marking a notable loss for Kentucky. Dingle, a Bowling Green native and former three-star recruit from the class of 2021, had been a consistent contributor over his collegiate career. He accumulated 43 receptions for 615 yards and four touchdowns during his tenure with the Wildcats. His decision to transfer was influenced by limited utilization in the passing game, particularly during the 2024 season, where he recorded only nine catches for 71 yards and a single touchdown.
Dingle’s departure was preceded by tight end Tanner Lemaster’s announcement to enter the transfer portal. Lemaster, a redshirt freshman from Washington High in Ohio, had limited playing time during the 2024 season, participating in only three offensive snaps. His decision to transfer leaves him with three years of eligibility remaining.
Acquisition of Henry Boyer
In response to these departures, Kentucky secured a commitment from Henry Boyer, a former Illinois Fighting Illini tight end. Boyer, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 270 pounds, is recognized for his blocking abilities. During his time at Illinois, he recorded three receptions, all in the 2023 season. As a redshirt junior, Boyer brings two seasons of eligibility to the Wildcats, aiming to bolster the tight end position with his experience and physical presence.
Current Tight End Roster and Future Prospects
With the recent changes, Kentucky’s tight end roster includes returnees Josh Kattus and Willie Rodriguez, both expected to play pivotal roles in the upcoming season. Additionally, the Wildcats have secured a commitment from four-star recruit Mikkel Skinner, who is anticipated to contribute significantly to the team’s offensive schemes.
Implications for the 2025 Season
The turnover in the tight end position reflects a broader trend within the Kentucky football program, which has experienced multiple player transfers following a challenging 2024 season that concluded with a 4-8 overall record. The addition of Henry Boyer and the anticipated contributions from returning players and new recruits are strategic moves aimed at enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities.
As the Wildcats prepare for the 2025 season, the restructured tight end unit will be integral to the team’s performance. The blend of experienced transfers and promising recruits is expected to provide quarterback Brock Vandagriff with reliable options in both blocking and receiving roles, essential for executing a balanced and effective offense.
The developments within the tight end position underscore the dynamic nature of college football rosters in the era of the transfer portal. Kentucky’s proactive approach in addressing these changes demonstrates the program’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The forthcoming season will reveal how these adjustments translate into on-field performance and overall team success.