As the Governor’s Cup rivalry approaches, the Kentucky Wildcats have released their official depth chart for Saturday’s season-finale clash against the Louisville Cardinals. The updated chart reveals significant shifts across key positions, signaling both injury concerns and strategic adjustments from head coach Mark Stoops.
Key Injuries Force Major Changes
Kentucky will enter the rivalry game without two important contributors:
- Kam Olds, the standout outside linebacker, has been ruled out after suffering a knee hyper-extension in the matchup against Vanderbilt. His absence forces the Wildcats to rely on sophomore Steven Soles Jr., who has been elevated to the starting JACK linebacker role, with Lorenzo Cowan listed as backup.
- Tight end Josh Kattus has also been removed from the depth chart due to injury. In his place, junior Henry Boyer steps into the starting Y-tight-end role, supported by sophomore backup Elijah Brown.
Their absences add to what Stoops described as “eight defensive players unavailable” heading into the game—a worrying number considering the physicality and emotional intensity of the rivalry.
Despite Injury Clouds, Some Starters Remain Listed
Several players nursing injuries remain on the depth chart, suggesting they may still be available:
- Alex Afari Jr.
- Nasir Addison
- Terhyon Nichols
Their inclusion points to Kentucky’s need for experience and stability heading into one of the most pressure-packed games of the season.
Selected Depth Chart Highlights
Offense
- QB – Cutter Boley (Fr-RS)
Backups: Zach Calzada OR Beau Allen - RB – Dante Dowdell OR Seth McGowan
- WR Trio – Kendrick Law, Ja’Mori Maclin, Hardley Gilmore
- TE – Henry Boyer (starter, replacing Kattus)
Defense
- JACK/OLB – Steven Soles Jr. (elevated starter)
- MIKE LB – Daveren Rayner
- WILL LB – Alex Afari Jr.
- CB – JQ Hardaway / Terhyon Nichols
What It Means for Kentucky
The Wildcats head into Louisville with a mix of youth, urgency, and uncertainty. Losing Olds and Kattus trims depth in two critical areas—edge defense and tight-end production. At the same time, young talents like Boley, Soles Jr., and Gilmore will have an opportunity to shine on one of the biggest stages of their careers.
With several banged-up starters still listed as available, the depth chart reflects both Kentucky’s resilience and the physical toll of a long SEC season.
As Stoops’ squad prepares for the intense showdown, one thing is clear: every available Wildcat will be needed to close the season strong and reclaim bragging rights in the Commonwealth.
