JJ Weaver Prepared to Take Next Step in His Final Season at Kentucky

Kentucky linebacker JJ Weaver has the physical tools to play in the NFL, but he has yet to put it together consistently at the collegiate level. Entering his fifth season at Kentucky as a redshirt senior, Weaver is looking to take the next step and emerge as the defensive leader for Kentucky football in 2023.

The Louisville native is preparing to be a leader on and off the field for the Wildcats.

Being a Captain on the Defense

A Sea of Blue’s Dylan Ballard had the chance to sit down with Weaver and ask him a couple of questions at Kentucky football’s media day.

Ballard asked what it meant to be a leader and a veteran on the team, to which Weaver responded, “It means a lot. Plus, being an in-state guy too. So, having everybody behind my back, supporting me. That’s what I really need, the love. I really care about the love. I’m big on love.”

He added, “So, I know that me coming back means I’m gonna get so much love, positive feedback, motivation. I really need motivation. I knew Coach [Brad] White was gonna help me get motivated, push me to the limit like he did Josh Allen.”

When asked what leadership role he is taking, Weaver said, “Just being more consistent in everything I do. Talking more, being on and right with people, telling people if they did wrong.”

Weaver continued, saying, “Personally, for me, I want somebody to tell me if I did something wrong. So, just being consistent with everything.”

The big thing for Kentucky football is consistency. As Weaver and several people within the program have stated, Kentucky has to be consistent in every aspect in order to be successful this fall.

Expecting Good Results

The UK football team has been working tirelessly this offseason to be elite in 2023. Weaver himself has high expectations for Brad White’s defense.

“Just being a dominant force and fast. Being consistent with everything we do.”

That’s what JJ Weaver believes Kentucky football will look like this season. Dominant, fast, and of course, consistent.

As the offense looks to regain its footing following a shaky 2022 season, it is imperative that JJ Weaver and the rest of the UK defense play at a high level.

Helping in the Community

JJ Weaver has played a massive role in communities all around the state, most recently hosting a bike drive in Louisville for children in need. According to his profile on the UK Athletics website, he is even majoring in Community Leadership and Development.

Weaver discussed how much it means to him that he can give back to others. He said, “It means a lot. Plus, where I come from, I never had nothing, and being able to give back to my community means a lot. God put me in this position to be able to bless others.”

JJ Weaver knows exactly what it means to wear “KENTUCKY” across the chest, literally and figuratively. He will not only prove to be a great defensive leader for Kentucky football, but also a great representative for the Bluegrass State.