Kentucky Adds Lineman Depth with Ball State Transfer

From Cincinnati to the SEC

A product of St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati, Fogler was a 2-star prospect in the 2023 recruiting cycle. After redshirting his freshman year at Ball State and not appearing in a game last season, he began working at left tackle during spring practices under new Cardinals head coach Mike Uremovich. His decision to enter the transfer portal on April 16 came just weeks after spring camp concluded.

Though Fogler hasn’t seen live game action at the college level, Kentucky’s coaching staff sees potential in his size, frame, and remaining eligibility. While his role for 2025 is likely to be developmental, his left tackle experience provides positional value at one of the more challenging spots on the offensive line.

Rebuilding with Purpose

Fogler becomes the sixth offensive lineman to transfer into the Kentucky program this offseason, continuing a focused rebuild of the unit known as the “Big Blue Wall.” He joins a group that includes Joshua Braun (Arkansas), Evan Wibberly (Western Kentucky), Shiyazh Pete (New Mexico), and Alexander Wollschlaeger (Bowling Green). Wallace Unamba, who transferred to UK in the winter, has since departed for Virginia, effectively opening the door for Fogler’s addition.

This type of roster movement is emblematic of the broader trends in college football’s transfer era not every addition is meant to be an immediate starter, but rather part of a larger strategy to bolster depth and competition.

Competition and Continuity

Kentucky now has 14 scholarship offensive linemen, a marked improvement from the 2024 roster that returned just five linemen: Jager Burton, Jalen Farmer, Aba Selm, Hayes Johnson, and Malachi Wood. For offensive line coach Zach Yenser, the goal is clear: build a unit that can hold up against SEC defenses through talent and depth.

Fogler’s presence may not shift the starting five immediately, but it adds a layer of stability and developmental potential. His case underscores how the Wildcats are blending experience, raw tools, and long-term planning to reestablish strength in the trenches.

As the 2025 season approaches, Fogler will be one of several players vying for a role. While his path to playing time may not be immediate, his arrival reflects Kentucky’s intent to invest in the future while managing the present.