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Running back Ray Davis will not play in Kentucky’s bowl game but no one should complain because without him UK likely would not be in a bowl game.
Davis announced on social media Monday that he will declare for the 2024 NFL Draft after playing just one year at Kentucky after transferring from Vanderbilt.
Davis was a rare talent who played his first two years at Temple before spending the next two seasons at Vandy. He had a 1,000-yard rushing season at all three schools, something no other back has ever done.
Davis broke UK’s single-season record for most touchdowns by one player with 20. The previous mark of 19 was held by Benny Snell Jr.
He also joined Najee Harris (2019) of Alabama and Percy Harvin (2008) of Florida as the only players in SEC history to have at least seven receiving touchdowns and seven rushing touchdowns in the same season according to UK stats guru Corey Price.
Davis had the COVID option to return for another season but instead wants to enter the NFL Draft.
He posted this statement on social media:
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for the position he has put me in today. To Big Blue Nation, thank you for showing me the best parts of college football. To the coaches and staff at Kentucky, thank you for allowing me to fine tune my skills and grow as a young man. To my teammates you will forever be my family.
“Thank you to Vanderbilt and Temple for taking a chance on me and molding me into the player and man I am today. This journey has led me to many blessings and greater things ahead.
“After long talks with my family and friends, I will be declaring for the 2024 NFL draft. This has always been a dream of mine and is a challenge I’m ready to take on. Forever the underdog.”
Davis certainly had a memorable final game at Kentucky in the 38-31 win over Louisville. He had 14 carries for 76 yards, including a 37-yard, game-winning touchdown run. He also had four catches for 51 yards and two touchdowns.
He finished the season with 1,066 rushing yards in 12 games and averaged 5.7 yards per carry.
The NFL Draft will be April 25-27 in Detroit, Mich.
One Response
I imagine his draft stock will never be higher. He was truly a pleasure to watch. You’d think they had him bottled up just to see him fight free.
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