Alright, let’s talk Darrion Henry-Young. This guy is shifting gears from Kentucky and has decided it’s time to explore what the transfer portal has to offer. For those keeping track of Wildcats’ movements, Darrion is another big name entering the portal right after spring practice wrapped up.
Starting out, Henry-Young hit the scene at Ohio State during that bizarre, COVID-shortened 2020 season. Got in a couple of games, snagged a sack, and made some tackles. But things didn’t exactly pop off, so after some redshirt years and limited action, he made his move to Kentucky for 2022.
In Kentucky blue, Darrion gradually cranked up the heat. By 2023, he was starting to catch fire—ten tackles, including two for losses, 1.5 sacks, a quarterback hurry, and he forced a fumble. Not too shabby until he got sidelined by a season-ending injury against Mississippi State. Ouch.
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He sat on the bench the entire 2024 season, taking a medical redshirt. But with eligibility for the 2025 season hanging in the balance, he decided to use his pivot foot. Now, Darrion is on the lookout for a new team to collar up with and make some waves.
Kentucky is watching quite the parade exit through the transfer portal this spring. Darrion is the eighth guy from the Wildcats’ roster to enter the portal. He joins a long list including offensive linemen like Daniel Mincey and Marc Nave Jr., along with other defensive mates like Kendrick Gilbert and Dennious Jackson. They’ve lost 30 players just this cycle—29 if you don’t count those who stuck around. That’s a LOT of jerseys walking out.
On the flip side, UK’s been doing some shopping of their own. Wide receiver Hardley Gilmore IV made a round trip from Kentucky to Nebraska and back again. Plus, they snagged defensive lineman Lorenzo Cowan from USC. They’re not just standing still while the dust settles.
For those really into the transfer details, the spring portal window—open as of April 16—closes on the 25th. This little window is like a clearance sale for non-graduates to jump into the portal. Graduates? They have the luxury of jumping ship whenever it works for them.
Remember that new SEC rule, though? If you’re transferring within the conference this spring, don’t pack your bags for immediate play. You’ll be benched for 2025. Seems like a hoop to jump through, but rules are rules.
So, if you’re keeping up with Darrion Henry-Young or anyone else in the portal, get your popcorn ready. This offseason shuffle is bound to get interesting. And, hey, if you’re thinking of entering the portal yourself, now you know what to expect.