Mark Stoops believes Jager Burton, left, could be a leader in the offensive line this season. (Vicky Graff Photo)
Mark Stoops knows Kentucky’s offensive line problems have been looked at and talked about a lot by more than just UK coaches.
He understands UK fans know the line was a problem and Stoops has tried to address those issues since the 2022 season ended.
“We need to improve in certain spots on the offensive line. I think we’ve addressed that issue. Always want to continue to work really hard and get better. But personnel-wise, I feel good and feel like we have some numbers and some guys to work with,” the Kentucky coach said.
“I like their approach and there’s quite a few, I just feel like there’s really good leadership with Eli Cox and Jager (Burton) having another year of experience and of course, Kenneth (Horsey).”
Stoops said Northern Illinois transfer Marques Cox is “so big and athletic.” However, he also noted he is a “really good person, good leader” who shows that with his actions daily on and off the field.
“The way he goes through walkthroughs, the way he goes through meetings, he’s just a very mature, young man. He works really hard. By the way, he looks very athletic out there, so that’s a good thing,” Stoops said.
Stoops also thinks the offensive line may have more flexibility to move players around in 2023 based on the team’s experience.
“Some of it we will do some things intentionally. Just in general, we’re deeper, we’re much a more solid 10 right now then we were a year ago,” Stoops said. “Like Jag (Jager Burton) had a little virus or whatever a week ago or so, it was really easy to plug Eli Cox right back in there (at center) and go from there.
“Make moves like that. So, we’ll have some flexibility.”
