Stein Proving He is Relentless Recruiter

Kentucky coach Will Stein has shown he’s a relentless recruiter and not afraid to go after some of the nation’s elite players. However, he’s made it clear there is one thing he will not do for any recruit.

“One thing I’m not going to do is beg and plead. I’m not going to get on my hands and knees and say, ‘Please come to Kentucky.’ No, they better want to be here,” Stein said.  “They better want to play for the blue and the white. They better want to play in Kroger Field. We have a great product.

“We have every resource that we need right now to go field an elite ’27 class. We’re building relationships and why wouldn’t you want to play in this offense? Why wouldn’t you want to play for me and for (offensive coordinator) Joe Sloan? I mean, you’re talking about guys that have taken guys to New York (for the Heisman Trophy ceremony) recently, not 25 years ago, right now.

“I’ve had a league (NFL) quarterback play, and guys have translated to great play in the National Football League. These players know that, who are coming on campus, and I feel like we are in a really strong position with a handful of guys.”

Stein had a bevy of prospects on campus each Saturday during spring practice and did again Saturday for the Blue-White Game when he picked up another commitment from Cleveland defensive back Tristin Hughes, UK’s ninth commitment in the 2027 recruiting class.

“I do like where we’re at currently with that class. We’ve had some elite players come through here, and not just quarterback-wise, but all positions. Now, it’s our job to close,” Stein said.

“The best way I’ve recruited is on Saturdays and showing a great product on the field. So you’re not going to win or lose recruiting right now, but it does build momentum towards the future.”