The University of Kentucky is carefully adjusting its roster during the quieter spring transfer period, securing a significant pickup in former UCF tight end Elijah Brown. After an active winter in the transfer portal, the team has taken a more targeted approach this spring, prioritizing key needs over sheer numbers. With a handful of scholarships still available, the coaching staff has concentrated on bolstering the tight end position, and this addition reflects a deliberate move to enhance both depth and flexibility.
BREAKING: UCF transfer TE Elijah Brown has signed with Kentucky, @PeteNakos_ reportsđźhttps://t.co/RXTEsagLXG pic.twitter.com/gOpG7nJ2o2
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal_) May 5, 2025
Elijah Brown: A Versatile Journey Leads Back to the SEC
Elijah Brown, a 6-foot-6, 250-pound tight end from Dayton, Ohio, has committed to Kentucky following a recent visit to Lexington. A former four-star prospect from Wayne High School and the No. 8 tight end in the 2022 recruiting class, Brown began his college career at Alabama, later transferring to Florida Atlantic. After a brief commitment to UCF earlier this year, he has re-entered the transfer portal and now returns to the SEC.
Brown arrives with two years of eligibility remaining and experience from three different FBS programs. While his on-field production has been modestâposting just one 22-yard reception in 2023âhe earned strong marks as a run blocker and contributed on special teams. His size, toughness, and diverse collegiate background make him an intriguing asset for a Kentucky offense in transition.
TRENDING: Former class of 2022 4âď¸ recruit and Alabama commit Elijah Brown has committed to Kentucky.
The tight end, standing at 6-foot-6 and 250 pounds, committed after a visit to Kentucky over the weekend.
Brown has two years of eligibility left.#BBN #KentuckyWildcats pic.twitter.com/wOB4zbysbX
— KY Insider (@KyInsider) May 5, 2025
Filling a Need in a Changing Position Group
Kentuckyâs tight end room has seen significant turnover in recent months. With the departures of Khamari Anderson, Tanner Lemaster, and Jordan Dingle, the Wildcats were left with a need for both experience and depth. Brown becomes the second tight end transfer added this offseason, joining former Illinois TE Henry Boyer. Kentucky also signed four-star freshman Mikkel Skinner in December, further reinforcing the unit.
Returning players Josh Kattus and Willie Rodriguez provide a solid foundation, but the infusion of new talent could signal a shift toward more multiple-tight-end formations under new offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan. Brownâs skill set aligns with that vision offering a strong blocking presence with untapped potential as a pass-catcher.
A Reconnection Years in the Making
This signing also marks a full-circle moment for Kentucky tight ends coach and recruiting coordinator Vince Marrow, who was heavily involved in Brownâs recruitment out of high school. Though Brown initially chose Alabama, Marrowâs familiarity with his game and background likely played a key role in bringing him to Lexington.
With a few scholarships still available, Kentucky may not be done with portal additions. But the signing of Elijah Brown addresses a clear roster need with a player whose ceiling could rise in the right system.
No Comment! Be the first one.